10 best long-distance moving companies in North Bergen, NJ

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in significant ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Hiring the right movers can help relieve your challenges. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings reach your new home safely, we've put together this list of the top long-distance movers in North Bergen.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies differ in many ways. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only operate within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local moving companies more often set fees based on how long a job takes. However, some movers use a mix of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

Local North Bergen movers may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in North Bergen

Choosing the right long-distance mover in North Bergen requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. See the list below for some recommendations on picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in North Bergen.

• 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 clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, looking into these or similar insurance options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance options provided by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, 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 serves as a sign that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers supply customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in North Bergen several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Confirm that these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing plans to help you afford your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong option to help pay for some of the cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare several choices to make sure you pick 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 other customers have said about specific long-distance moving companies. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and more expensive to hire a mover. North Bergen also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Trustworthy moving companies generally won't demand your complete payment upfront. If a mover has a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A great tip for long-distance moves is to secure your movers far enough ahead of time. It's best if you schedule your move at least 90 days ahead of time. This gives you plenty of time to hire a moving company. 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 a month in advance. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Create a list of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move. The list should include items such as updating your address with the New Jersey DMV.

Pack essentials for the first few days, such as extra clothes, medications, and toiletries.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll provide reimbursement if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but provides greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it provides reduced coverage. If you choose this option, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are damaged or lost.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. This usually 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