10 best long-distance moving companies in Utica, NY

Long-distance or interstate moves have unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns like how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the best moving professionals for the job. We've compiled this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Utica so you, your family, and your possessions get to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

Local moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight they're moving. However, some movers use a combination of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

Local Utica moving companies are typically more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Utica

When you're selecting a long-distance mover, the wide range of choices can feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for choosing a legitimate long-distance mover in Utica.

• 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. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, inquiring about these or similar insurance options is a good idea. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers supply a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We suggest seeking out quotes several months before your move. Get detailed quotes from several long-distance movers in Utica. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing options to help you pay for your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend researching several loans to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what other clients say about particular long-distance moving companies. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and loved ones.
• 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 more expensive to book a mover. Utica 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. Reputable movers generally won't demand your complete payment before the move. If a moving company has an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to secure your moving company well in advance of your move date. We advise scheduling movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we recommend getting started a month ahead of time. You probably have sentimental, valuable, or fragile belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

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

Put together a suitcase with necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, toothbrushes, and medications.

The night before moving day, don't forget to get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

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

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy when you move. This typically 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