10 best long-distance moving companies in Colonie, NY

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

The right moving professionals can help relieve your problems. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've put together this overview of the top long-distance movers in Colonie.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are many key differences to note. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic radius. They'll usually charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. Certain moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when establishing their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when moving between states. Hiring a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Colonie

When you're selecting a long-distance mover, the wide range of choices may be overwhelming. Below, we provide some guidance on how to find a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Colonie.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves within the same state, inquiring about these or similar insurance options is a good idea. To fully protect your belongings during the move, we suggest obtaining personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. We discuss long-distance moving insurance options in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Colonie several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several options allows you to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what previous clients thought about certain long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. You should also ask friends and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to book a mover. Since Colonie 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: Movers that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you suspicious. Additionally, legitimate moving companies won't ask for the full payment before the move. Steer clear of movers that have an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your movers far enough ahead of time is essential for a successful long-distance move. We recommend booking your move at least 90 days ahead of time, or possibly earlier if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we advise starting a month in advance. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

It's also a good idea to make a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the New York DMV.

Pack a bag with essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as medicine, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and extra clothes.

The night before moving day, don't forget to get a full night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is a necessity since it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers must provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to repair, replace, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain possessions that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. While Full Value Protection costs more, it gives you better coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it provides less protection. If you choose this option, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy during your move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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