10 best long-distance moving companies in Clifton, NJ

There are a variety of factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may be dealing with higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move your car.

Hiring the right movers can help lessen your worries. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Clifton to help you, your family, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in many ways. Local movers only work within a specific geographic radius and frequently charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to these jobs at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to charge based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight. Certain moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when setting their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Local Clifton moving companies are often more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies 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 Clifton

When you're choosing a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of options may feel overwhelming. See the list below for some advice on finding a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Clifton.

• 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. You can look into these or other insurance options for long-distance moves within the same state. To better protect your possessions during the move, we suggest getting personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. We discuss long-distance moving insurance plans in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to provide a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Clifton several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies offer financing plans. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We suggest researching several loans to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what other clients have said about particular long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. You should also ask neighbors and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to book and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Because there are so many college students living in Clifton, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that provide “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding quotes. Trustworthy moving companies generally won't demand your complete payment upfront. Avoid movers that have an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to hire your moving company well before of your move date. To ensure a stress-free move, find your movers no less than 90 days ahead of your move date, and possibly even more if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. When it comes to sentimental, valuable, or fragile items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

We also suggest making a checklist of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the New Jersey DMV.

Pack necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, extra clothes, and medicine.

Lastly, make sure to get plenty of rest the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves because it'll pay you back if any of your items are lost or damagedby your movers.

All interstate movers are required to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. While Full Value Protection costs more, it gives you greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less coverage. With this plan, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy after you move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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