10 best long-distance moving companies in Clifton Park, NY

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

The right movers can help put your mind at ease. We've compiled this list of the top long-distance movers in Clifton Park so you, your family, and your possessions get to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in a few ways. Local movers typically only work within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to charge based on time. Some moving companies, however, may use a mix of time and weight to determine their final cost, so it's key to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when moving from one state to another. Hiring a long-distance moving company 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 Clifton Park

Choosing the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices can feel overwhelming. See the list below for some guidance on finding a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Clifton Park.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves within the same state, looking into these or similar insurance options is a good idea. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to fully protect your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to supply customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in Clifton Park several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Confirm that these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing options to help you pay for your move. A moving or relocation loan can help with cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. We suggest researching several loans to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what previous clients have said about certain long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Friends and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be challenging and more expensive to hire a moving company. Clifton Park also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you cautious. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your full payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies with an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Finding your movers far enough ahead of time is key when getting ready for a long-distance move. We advise booking movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You probably have valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Put together a list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move. The list should include things such as updating your address with the New York DMV.

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

Finally, make sure to get enough rest the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers have to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it provides reduced coverage. If you choose this option, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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