10 best long-distance moving companies in Lancaster, NY

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in a variety of ways. When you're moving long-distance, you may have to deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move your car.

Hiring the right moving professionals can help lessen your issues. That’s why we’ve made this guide to the best long-distance movers in Lancaster to help you, your family, and your belongings make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers usually charge based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies commonly charge based on the length of time required for your move. Keep in mind that certain movers might use both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Local Lancaster moving companies are generally more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when relocating to another state. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Lancaster

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options can be overwhelming, making it challenging to select the right one for you. Here are some tips for choosing a trustworthy long-distance mover in Lancaster.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other insurance options for long-distance moves within the same state. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to fully protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to supply clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Lancaster several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing plans. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare a few choices to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others say about certain long-distance movers. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Since Lancaster is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you wary. Additionally, reliable movers shouldn’t ask for the full payment upfront. Steer clear of movers with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A great tip for long-distance moves is to book your movers far enough ahead of time. To ensure an easy move, secure your movers no less than 90 days ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might prefer to keep certain fragile, sentimental, or valuable possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Create a list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move. The list should include tasks 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 suitcase with items such as extra clothes, medicine, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

The night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll pay you back if any of your possessions are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, 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 per pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection is more expensive but gives you more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less protection. This option requires your moving company to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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