10 best long-distance moving companies in Jamestown, NY

Long-distance or interstate moves bring their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with challenges like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Picking the right moving professionals can help alleviate your challenges. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've created this overview of the top long-distance movers in Jamestown.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only assist with local moves. Local moving companies only work within a specific geographic radius and usually charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to these jobs at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to charge based on how long a job takes. Keep in mind that some moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Although 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 highly valuable, especially when it comes to moving from one state to another. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Jamestown

When you're selecting a long-distance mover, the wide range of choices may be overwhelming. See the list below for some guidance on finding a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Jamestown.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, inquiring about these or other options is a good idea. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed explanation 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 company is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers provide a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start collecting estimates several months ahead of your move. Request detailed quotes from several long-distance movers in Jamestown. Confirm that these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies offer financing plans. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help cover cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We suggest researching several options to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others think about specific long-distance moving companies. 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 hire a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you cautious. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment before the move. If a moving company has a long history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to find your moving company well in advance of your move date. We recommend booking your move at least 90 days beforehand, or even earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. When it comes to valuable, fragile, or sentimental belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

To stay organized, prepare a detailed list of all the necessary tasks both before and after your move, such as notifying the New York DMV of your new address.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days, such as extra clothes, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and medicine.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less protection. With this option, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged possessions.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy after you 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