10 best long-distance moving companies in Gates, NY

There are a variety of factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns like how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the best movers for the job. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home safely, we've created this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Gates.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are several key differences to note. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only operate within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers are more likely to charge by time. Certain moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when setting their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local Gates moving companies are typically more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and experience, especially when relocating to another state. 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 Gates

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options can be overwhelming, making it difficult to select the right one for your move. Below, we provide some advice on how to find a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Gates.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can inquire about these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves inside one state. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to completely protect your possessions. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Gates several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, ensure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong strategy to help cover cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several loans allows you to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others thought about certain long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Neighbors and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to get and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Gates also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that provide “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding prices. Reliable movers generally won't ask for your complete payment upfront. Avoid moving companies that have an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable tip for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough ahead of time. We advise hiring movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. When it comes to fragile, valuable, or sentimental 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.

Making a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the New York DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

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

The night before your big move, remember 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 need to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain belongings that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection is pricier but provides more coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it has reduced coverage. If you choose this insurance, your moving company 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 when you move. While this usually 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