10 best long-distance moving companies in Orchard Park, NY

Long-distance or interstate moves present unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

Selecting the right movers can help lessen your problems. We've put together this guide to the top long-distance movers in Orchard Park so you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home safely.

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 note. Local movers typically only offer services within a certain geographic area. They'll usually charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

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

Local Orchard Park moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Selecting 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 Orchard Park

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options may feel overwhelming, making it challenging to hire the right one for your move. See the list below for some recommendations on finding a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Orchard Park.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, inquire about the insurance options provided by your mover. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers 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 enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to provide a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Orchard Park several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Confirm that these quotes include 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, quite a few moving companies have financing options. A moving or relocation loan can with cost. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several options allows you to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others have said about certain long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. You should also ask neighbors and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be difficult and more expensive to book a moving company. Orchard Park 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 suspicious of movers that offer “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding estimates. Additionally, legitimate movers won't request the full payment before the move. If a moving company has a 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 good tip for long-distance moves is to reserve your movers far enough ahead of time. We suggest booking your move at least 90 days in advance, or even earlier if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You might prefer to have certain items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as notifying the New York DMV of your new address.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a suitcase with items such as toiletries, extra clothes, and medications.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is a necessity because it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers must offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. Full Value Protection is pricier but provides more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it provides less protection. If you choose this plan, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. While this typically 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