10 best long-distance moving companies in Montclair, NJ

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in significant ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with challenges such as how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Ease your issues by picking the right moving professionals for the job. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home without incident, we've put together this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Montclair.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only assist with local moves. Local movers usually only work within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

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

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be more affordable), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly 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 proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Montclair

Choosing the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices may be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of choosing a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Montclair, we've gathered some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer 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 look into these or similar options. In addition to the insurance choices carried by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a qualified mover. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: We suggest looking for quotes several months before your move. Request itemized cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Montclair. Ensure these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We suggest researching several choices to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what previous clients say about specific long-distance movers. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and loved ones.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to book a moving company. Montclair also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that offer “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding quotes. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your entire payment upfront. Steer clear of movers with a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your movers far enough ahead of time is key for a successful long-distance move. We advise scheduling your move at least three months in advance, or possibly earlier if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. When it comes to sentimental, valuable, or fragile belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Putting together 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.

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

The night before moving day, don't forget to get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is critical since it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. Some movers might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Although Full Value Protection is pricier, it provides better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less coverage. With this option, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged items.

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

Sources

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