10 best long-distance moving companies in De Witt, NY

There are several importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

The right movers can help alleviate your challenges. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the top long-distance movers in De Witt to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions make it safely to your new home.

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 consider. Local moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a significant fee to do so.

Local moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance movers more likely to charge based on the weight they're moving. Some movers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to calculate their prices, so it's key to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when it comes to moving from one state to another. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in De Witt

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the choices can be overwhelming, making it challenging to select the right one for your needs. Below, we provide some guidance on how to find a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in De Witt.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, looking into these or other options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance choices offered by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers supply a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. Ask for itemized cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in De Witt. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing options to help you pay for your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We recommend looking into several choices to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what other clients think about certain long-distance movers. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, 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. Because there are so many college students living in De Witt, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Additionally, reputable moving companies shouldn’t demand the full payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies with a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to secure your moving company well before of your move date. We suggest scheduling movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need more specialized moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we recommend getting started a month beforehand. You probably have sentimental, valuable, or fragile items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than in the moving truck.

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

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

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is a must for long-distance moves. It'll pay you back if any of your items are lost or damagedby your movers.

All interstate movers are required to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection is more expensive, it offers greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less protection. With this option, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy when you move. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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