10 best long-distance moving companies in Hackensack, NJ

Long-distance or interstate moves present their own challenges that distinguish them 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.

The right movers can help ease your challenges. We've made this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Hackensack 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 assist with local moves. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only offer services within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically set fees based on the weight of your items, while local movers more often set fees based on time. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Local Hackensack moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when relocating to another state. Selecting a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Hackensack

When you're selecting a long-distance mover, the wide variety of options may be overwhelming. See the list below for some tips on choosing a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Hackensack.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or similar options. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to completely protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Hackensack several months before your move and get detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing plans to help you pay for your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several choices allows you to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what previous customers have said about particular long-distance moving companies. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Because there are so many college students living in Hackensack, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you wary. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your full payment upfront. Avoid movers that have an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key tip for long-distance moves is to find your movers far enough in advance. We suggest scheduling movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. You probably have fragile, valuable, or sentimental items, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Creating a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the New Jersey DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Put together a suitcase with essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, extra clothes, and medications.

The night before your big move, don't forget to get a good night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll provide reimbursement if any of your possessions are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers need to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable items (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection is pricier but provides greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less protection. With this plan, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged items.

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

Sources

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