10 best long-distance moving companies in Montville, NJ

Long-distance or interstate moves have their own challenges that set them apart from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues like how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

Picking the right moving professionals can help ease your problems. We've made this guide to the best long-distance movers in Montville so you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are many key differences to keep in mind. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only work within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies typically set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers usually charge based on the time required for your move. However, some providers use a combination of time and weight to set their prices, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

Local Montville moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when moving between states. Hiring a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary 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 Montville

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options can feel overwhelming, making it challenging to pick the right one for your move. See the list below for some tips on finding a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Montville.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage types: 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 suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Montville several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing options to help you afford your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good choice to help pay for some of the cost. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several loans to make sure you select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others think about particular long-distance movers. You should also ask neighbors and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be difficult and more expensive to get a mover. Montville also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you wary. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment upfront. Avoid movers with a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Booking your moving company far enough in advance is key for a successful long-distance move. It's best if you book your move at least three months beforehand. This gives you plenty of time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

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

Creating a checklist of all the things that need to be done 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 putting together a bag with items such as toiletries, extra clothes, and medications.

Finally, on 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 because it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers must offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable possessions (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less coverage. This plan requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy when you move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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