10 best long-distance moving companies in Union, NJ

There are a variety of factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may be dealing with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the right moving professionals for the job. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've created this list of the best long-distance movers in Union.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in many ways. Local movers only work within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to such requests at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies usually charge based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies usually charge based on the time needed for your move. However, some movers use a mix of time and weight to calculate their prices, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

Local Union moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Union

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options can be overwhelming, making it challenging to pick the right one for you. Below, we offer some recommendations on how to find a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Union.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. In addition to the insurance options provided by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance plans in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to supply a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. Request itemized quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Union. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing options to help you pay for your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong strategy to help cover cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few options to make sure you choose the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what previous clients have said about particular long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to book and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Since Union is home to so many college students, 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. Reliable moving companies generally shouldn't request your complete payment upfront. If a moving company has a long history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful tip for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough ahead of time. We recommend booking movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. When it comes to sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Putting together 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.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days of your move, such as toothbrushes, medicine, and extra clothes.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is a must 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. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. Full Value Protection costs more but includes more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it has less protection. If you choose this plan, your movers will reimburse 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 after you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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