4 best long-distance moving companies in Williston, ND

Long-distance or interstate moves bring their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about challenges like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Choosing the right movers can help relieve your challenges. We've created this list of the leading long-distance movers in Williston so you, your loved ones, and your possessions get to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are many key differences to consider. Local movers generally offer moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies typically charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies usually set fees based on the time needed for your move. Certain moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when calculating their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Local Williston moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when relocating to another state. Choosing a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Williston

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in Williston requires research to make sure the company meets your needs and fits your budget. Below, we provide some tips on how to choose a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Williston.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves within the same state. In addition to the insurance choices offered by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months in advance to ensure you have plenty of time to plan your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to ask for detailed quotes from several long-distance movers in Williston. Make sure these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies offer financing options. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good strategy to help pay for some of the cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We recommend researching several loans to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others thought about particular long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. You should also ask neighbors and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be difficult and costlier to hire a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that give you “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. Steer clear of movers with an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A good tip for long-distance moves is to secure your movers far enough ahead of time. We advise booking your move at least three months in advance, or even earlier if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. 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 in the moving truck.

It's also a good idea to make a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the North Dakota DMV.

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

The night before moving day, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll pay you back if any of your possessions are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but offers more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less coverage. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

North Dakota Department of Transportation U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration