10 best long-distance moving companies in Plainfield, NJ

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

Alleviate your issues by choosing the best moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve compiled this overview of the top long-distance movers in Plainfield to help you, your family, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are different in many ways. Local moving companies only offer services within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to these jobs at all.

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

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be more affordable), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when it comes to moving from one state to another. Selecting a long-distance mover 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 stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Plainfield

Choosing the right long-distance mover in Plainfield requires research to make sure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. Here are some tips for choosing a legitimate, reliable long-distance moving company in Plainfield.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of 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 other options is a good idea. To completely protect your belongings during the move, we recommend obtaining personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to supply a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months in advance to ensure you have plenty of time to plan your move. Get detailed quotes from several long-distance movers in Plainfield. Make sure these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing options to help you pay for your move. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend researching several choices to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what other customers have said about certain long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Neighbors 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. Plainfield also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that give you “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding prices. Additionally, trustworthy movers won't ask for the full payment before the move. Steer clear of movers that have a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A great tip for long-distance moves is to book your movers far enough ahead of time. We recommend scheduling your move at least 90 days beforehand, or possibly earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we suggest starting a month in advance. You might choose to keep certain fragile, valuable, or sentimental possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

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

Put together essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, extra clothes, and medicine.

The night before moving day, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers must offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings 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. Full Value Protection is more expensive but provides more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less protection. With this plan, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. This typically 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