10 best long-distance moving companies in West New York, NJ

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

The right moving company can help put your mind at ease. That’s why we’ve made this list of the top long-distance movers in West New York to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only do local moves. Local movers usually only work within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies are more likely to charge based on time. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific 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 moving from one state to another. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in West New York

Hiring the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices can feel overwhelming. Below, we provide some recommendations on how to find a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in West New York.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, looking into these or similar options is a good idea. To better protect your belongings during the move, we recommend purchasing your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. We discuss long-distance moving insurance coverage in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers supply a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in West New York several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help cover expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple options to make sure you choose the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what others say about certain long-distance movers. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be challenging and costlier to book a moving company. Since West New York is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that offer “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding estimates. Reputable moving companies generally shouldn't request your complete payment before the move. Avoid moving companies that have a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to reserve your moving company well before of your move date. We recommend hiring movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we suggest getting started a month beforehand. You might prefer to keep certain possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Writing a checklist of all the tasks 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.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by putting together a bag with items such as toothbrushes, medications, and extra clothes.

The night before your move, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers need to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you better coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it gives you less protection. With this option, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

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