10 best long-distance moving companies in Bernards, NJ

There are several factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about challenges like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the best moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Bernards to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to charge by time. However, some movers use a mix of time and weight to set their prices, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

Local Bernards moving companies are generally more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when relocating to another state. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Bernards

Picking the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices can feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for picking a trustworthy long-distance moving company in Bernards.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, inquiring about these or similar insurance options is a good idea. To fully protect your possessions during the move, we suggest purchasing personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to provide customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Bernards several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Make sure these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing options. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help cover expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend looking into several loans to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what previous clients have said about certain long-distance movers. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to book and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Since Bernards is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Additionally, legitimate moving companies shouldn’t request the full payment before the move. Avoid moving companies with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Booking your movers well before your move date is extremely important when planning a long-distance move. We advise booking movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we recommend getting started a month ahead of time. You might prefer to have certain items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

To stay organized, prepare a detailed list of all the necessary tasks both before and after your move, such as notifying the New Jersey DMV of your new address.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a suitcase with items such as medicine, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and extra clothes.

Finally, make sure to get enough rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll provide reimbursement if any of your items are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get better coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it has reduced coverage. With this insurance, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration