10 best long-distance moving companies in Avon, OH

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

The right moving company can help put your mind at ease. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings make it to your new home without incident, we've put together this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Avon.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in several ways. Local movers generally provide 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 charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers are more likely to charge by time. Some movers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to set their rates, so it's important to check your provider's pricing structure.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when moving from one state to another. Hiring a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary 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 Avon

Picking the right long-distance mover is important, and the options can feel overwhelming. See the list below for some advice on picking a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Avon.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves within the same state, looking into these or similar options is a good idea. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to fully protect your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a qualified mover. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Avon several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Confirm that these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong choice to help pay for some of the cost. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. We recommend looking into several loans to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others think about specific long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your friends and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to get and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months. Since Avon is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that offer “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding estimates. Trustworthy movers generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment before the move. If a moving company has a history of negative 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

Scheduling your moving company far enough in advance is extremely important for a successful long-distance move. We recommend booking your move at least three months ahead of time, or even earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we advise getting started a month in advance. You might choose to keep certain fragile, sentimental, or valuable possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Create a list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move. The list should include tasks such as updating your address with the Ohio DMV.

Pack a bag with necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as extra clothes, medications, and toothbrushes.

Finally, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have 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 extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but offers greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less coverage. With this plan, your moving company will pay 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 keep the same policy. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration