10 best long-distance moving companies in Tonawanda, NY

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in significant ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move your car.

Selecting the right movers can help lessen your concerns. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've compiled this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Tonawanda.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are different in several ways. Local moving companies generally offer moving services within a designated geographic radius. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies are more likely to charge by time. However, some movers use a combination of time and weight to set their prices, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

Local Tonawanda moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance movers 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 Tonawanda

Picking the right long-distance mover is important, and the options may be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of choosing a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Tonawanda, we've compiled some advice below.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, inquire about the options provided by your mover. We also suggest obtaining your own moving insurance to completely protect your possessions. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to provide clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Tonawanda 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 added services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies have financing options. A moving or relocation loan can with expenses. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple choices to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what others think about specific long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and costlier to get a moving company. Since Tonawanda is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you suspicious. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your full payment upfront. Avoid movers that have 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 valuable piece of advice for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough ahead of time. We suggest scheduling your move at least 90 days beforehand, or possibly 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 by yourself. You probably have sentimental, valuable, or fragile items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

We also suggest 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.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by putting together a bag with items such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, medications, and extra clothes.

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide money back for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain possessions that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection is more expensive but provides more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less protection. This insurance requires your movers to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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