10 best long-distance moving companies in Elizabeth, NJ

There are a range of 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 challenges such as how to move your car.

The right movers can help alleviate your issues. We've compiled this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Elizabeth so you, your family, and your belongings arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ from those that only offer local moves. Local movers typically only work within a certain geographic radius. They'll usually charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight they're moving. Some movers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to determine their rates, so it's necessary to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer less expensive rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves is invaluable. 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 Elizabeth

Picking the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices may feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of finding a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Elizabeth, we've gathered some guidance below.

• 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 similar insurance options. In addition to the insurance options provided by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a qualified mover. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Elizabeth several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing options to help you pay for your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several choices allows you to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what previous clients have said about particular long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be challenging and costlier to book a moving company. Elizabeth also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Additionally, reliable moving companies won't request the full payment before the move. Avoid moving companies with a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice for long-distance moves is to find your movers far enough in advance. It's best if you plan your move at least three months ahead of time. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need more specialized services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. 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 the mover's truck.

Put together a list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move. The list should include things such as updating your address with the New Jersey DMV.

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

The night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if some of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but gives you greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it has less protection. If you choose this insurance, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy when 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