10 best long-distance moving companies in Onondaga, NY

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

Ease your worries by choosing the best moving professionals for the job. We've compiled this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Onondaga so you, your loved ones, and your possessions arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in a few ways. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only work within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies typically charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies typically set fees based on the time required for your move. Keep in mind that some movers might incorporate both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Local Onondaga moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Long-distance movers 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 headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Onondaga

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options can be overwhelming, making it challenging to choose the right one for you. To help you navigate the process of finding a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Onondaga, we've collected some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, inquiring about these or other options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance options carried by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your possessions. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers provide customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Start collecting estimates several months before your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to get itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Onondaga. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies offer financing options. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong option to help cover cost. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several loans allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others say about certain long-distance movers. Also, get recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be difficult and more expensive to hire a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in Onondaga, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that provide “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding estimates. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your full payment before the move. If a mover has an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to book your moving company well before of your move date. We advise scheduling your move at least three months beforehand, or even earlier if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

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

We also advise making a checklist of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the New York DMV.

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

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll reimburse you if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. While Full Value Protection is pricier, it gives you more coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it has less protection. With this insurance, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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