10 best long-distance moving companies in Auburn, NY

There are a range of factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about concerns like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Lessen your concerns by choosing the right movers for the job. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Auburn to help you, your family, and your belongings get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in a few ways. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only operate within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies typically charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers commonly charge based on the length of time needed for your move. Keep in mind that some moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific city and potentially offer less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance movers can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Auburn

Finding the right long-distance mover in Auburn requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. Below, we offer some tips on how to choose a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Auburn.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or other options. To fully protect your possessions during the move, we suggest getting personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a qualified mover. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to provide clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Auburn several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing options. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong option to help pay for some of the expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare several choices to make sure you find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what others think about specific long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be challenging and costlier to hire a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that provide “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding estimates. Additionally, trustworthy moving companies won't demand the full payment upfront. Avoid movers with 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

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to reserve your moving company well in advance of your move date. We suggest planning your move at least three months beforehand, or even earlier if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we advise starting a month in advance. When it comes to sentimental, valuable, or fragile items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

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

Pack essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as extra clothes, toiletries, and medicine.

The night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide money back 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 movers. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less protection. This plan requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy when you move. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

New York State Department of Motor Vehicles U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration