10 best long-distance moving companies in Paterson, NJ

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

Picking the right moving professionals can help lessen your challenges. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Paterson to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions get 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 moving companies only work within a specific geographic area and frequently charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such jobs at all.

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

Local Paterson moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Long-distance movers can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Paterson

When you're picking a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of options may feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for picking a legitimate, trustworthy long-distance moving company in Paterson.

• 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. You can look into these or other options for long-distance moves inside one state. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to better protect your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers provide customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in Paterson several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, ensure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies have financing plans. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help with expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. We recommend looking into several options to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what other customers say about particular long-distance moving companies. You should also ask friends and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, 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 moving company. Paterson 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: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your full payment upfront. If a moving company has a history of negative 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

Reserving your moving company far enough in advance is critical when preparing for a long-distance move. It's best if you plan your move at least three months in advance. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we suggest getting started a month beforehand. When it comes to sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

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

Pack a suitcase with necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as toothbrushes, medicine, and extra clothes.

The night before moving day, make sure you 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 requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain items that are extremely valuable (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 comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it provides less coverage. This insurance requires your movers to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings damaged or lost during the move.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. 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