10 best long-distance moving companies in Papillion, NE

There are many factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Picking the right moving professionals can help ease your worries. That’s why we’ve put together this overview of the top long-distance movers in Papillion to help you, your family, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in several ways. Local moving companies only work within a specific geographic area and frequently charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such requests at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to charge based on how long a job takes, while long-distance movers more likely to charge based on the weight they're moving. Keep in mind that some moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Although local movers may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when it comes to moving from one state to another. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Papillion

Choosing the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options can be overwhelming. See the list below for some guidance on picking a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Papillion.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can inquire about these or other insurance options. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance options in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers supply a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Papillion several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing options. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good option to help with expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several choices allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what others say about particular long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Papillion also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you wary. Reliable movers generally won't ask for your complete payment before the move. If a mover has an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Securing your moving company far enough ahead of time is extremely important when getting ready for a long-distance move. We recommend scheduling your move at least 90 days ahead of time, or possibly earlier if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. You probably have fragile, sentimental, or valuable items, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Putting together a checklist of all the things that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Nebraska DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days of your move, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, medicine, and extra clothes.

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less coverage. With this plan, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration