10 best long-distance moving companies in Vestal, NY

There are importantfactors that differentiate 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 concerns like how to move your car.

The right moving professionals can help lessen your concerns. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Vestal to help you, your family, and your possessions arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only do local moves. Local movers usually only operate within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers typically set fees based on the weight of your items, while local movers typically charge based on the length of 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 Vestal moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Vestal

Picking the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices can be overwhelming. Below, we offer some recommendations on how to choose a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Vestal.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can inquire about these or other insurance options. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to fully protect 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. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to supply a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Vestal several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Ensure these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies have financing plans. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise researching several choices to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what previous customers have said about particular long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable 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 hire a moving company. Vestal also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Additionally, trustworthy moving companies shouldn’t request the full payment before the move. Avoid movers with a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to hire your moving company well in advance of your move date. We recommend booking your move at least 90 days beforehand, or even earlier if you need specialized 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 might prefer to keep certain items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Making a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the New York DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

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

Lastly, make sure to get plenty of rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers have to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less protection. With this option, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged items.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. 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