10 best long-distance moving companies in Dayton, OH

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

Selecting the right moving professionals can help alleviate your problems. We've created this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Dayton so you, your family, and your possessions make it to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only do local moves. Local movers only operate within a specific geographic radius and frequently charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such requests at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on time. Some movers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to determine their final cost, so it's necessary to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, especially when it comes to moving between states. Hiring a long-distance mover 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 headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Dayton

Picking the right long-distance mover is important, and the options can be overwhelming. Here are some tips for picking a trustworthy long-distance moving company in Dayton.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. To better protect your belongings during the move, we suggest purchasing personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Dayton several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing plans to help you pay for your move. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help cover cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few loans to make sure you get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what previous customers have said about specific long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be challenging and more expensive to get a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in Dayton, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you wary. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your entire payment upfront. If a moving company has an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to secure your moving company well in advance of your move date. We recommend booking your move at least three months ahead of time, or possibly earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano 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 fragile, sentimental, or valuable belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, write a detailed list of all the necessary tasks before and after your move, such as notifying the Ohio DMV of your new address.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a suitcase with items such as medicine, extra clothes, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

The night before moving day, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers have to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to replace, repair, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain items that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection costs more but gives you more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less protection. This insurance requires your moving company to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy after you move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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