10 best long-distance moving companies in Watertown, NY

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in severalimportant ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move your car.

The right moving company can help put your mind at ease. We've compiled this list of the leading long-distance movers in Watertown so you, your family, and your belongings make it to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ from those that only offer local moves. Local movers generally offer moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

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

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

Hiring the right long-distance mover is important, and the options can feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Watertown, we've compiled some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves within the same state, looking into these or similar insurance options is a good idea. To completely protect your belongings during the move, we suggest getting personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Watertown several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Make sure these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing plans. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good option to help cover expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several loans allows you to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what previous customers have said about certain long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to hire a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your full payment before the move. If a mover has a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Securing your movers well before your move date is extremely important for a successful long-distance move. We advise hiring movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

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

It's also important to make 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.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days, such as extra clothes, toiletries, and medications.

Finally, on the night before your move, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll reimburse you if any of your belongings are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but includes greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it has less protection. This insurance requires your movers to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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