10 best long-distance moving companies in Passaic, NJ

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

The right moving company can help put your mind at ease. That’s why we’ve created this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Passaic to help you, your family, and your belongings make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are some key differences to note. Local movers only operate within a specific geographic area and often charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to such jobs at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on time. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when establishing their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

When faced with an interstate 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 more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the proper 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 Passaic

Choosing the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices can be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of picking a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Passaic, we've put together some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two kinds of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, asking about these or similar insurance options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance options carried by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers provide a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in Passaic several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing options as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can help with cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several choices to make sure you select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what previous customers think about certain long-distance movers. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be challenging and costlier to get a mover. Since Passaic is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you suspicious. Reliable moving companies generally shouldn't request your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of movers with an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Securing your movers well before your move date is extremely important when planning a long-distance move. We suggest booking your move at least three months beforehand, or possibly earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we recommend getting started a month beforehand. You might prefer to keep certain possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as notifying the New Jersey DMV of your new address.

Pack necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as toiletries, extra clothes, and medications.

The night before moving day, remember to get a full night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires 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 a pound) under this policy. While Full Value Protection is pricier, it provides more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less coverage. If you choose this option, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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