10 best long-distance moving companies in Syracuse, NY

Long-distance or interstate moves have their own challenges that set them apart from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may come up against complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns like how to move your car.

Picking the right moving professionals can help relieve your worries. We've created this list of the top long-distance movers in Syracuse so you, your family, and your possessions get to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on time. Some movers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to calculate their prices, so it's key to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when it comes to moving from one state to another. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Syracuse

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in Syracuse requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. To help you navigate the process of picking a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Syracuse, we've put together some advice below.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can inquire about these or similar insurance options. In addition to the insurance choices provided by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to supply clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Syracuse several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Ensure these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing plans to help you afford your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good option to help with cost. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several options allows you to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what other customers have said about particular long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and relatives.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to hire and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months. Syracuse also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that offer “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding prices. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your entire payment upfront. If a mover has an extensive 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

Securing your movers far enough in advance is key when preparing for a long-distance move. It's best if you plan your move at least three months ahead of time. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we suggest getting started 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.

Make a list of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move. The list should include tasks such as updating your address with the New York DMV.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days of your move, such as medicine, toothbrushes, and extra clothes.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers need to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. While Full Value Protection costs more, it gives you greater coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it has reduced coverage. This plan requires your movers to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

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