10 best long-distance moving companies in Deerfield, OH

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in severalimportant ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with challenges like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Selecting the right movers can help lessen your problems. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home safely, we've compiled this overview of the best long-distance movers in Deerfield.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only do local moves. Local movers only offer services within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to these jobs at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when setting their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Local Deerfield moving companies are often more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Deerfield

Picking the right long-distance mover in Deerfield requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. See the list below for some guidance on picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Deerfield.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, inquiring about these or other options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance options carried by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you full 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. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to supply a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We recommend asking for quotes several months before your move. Contact multiple long-distance moving providers in Deerfield and request detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing options to help you afford your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong choice to help with expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. We suggest researching several choices to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what others have said about certain long-distance movers. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and relatives.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be difficult and more expensive to get a moving company. Deerfield also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August 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, reputable movers shouldn’t demand the full payment upfront. Steer clear of movers that have an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Finding your movers well before your move date is extremely important when preparing for a long-distance move. We suggest booking your move at least three months in advance, or even earlier if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we recommend starting a month beforehand. You might choose to keep certain sentimental, valuable, or fragile items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

We also recommend making a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Ohio DMV.

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

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers are required to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable possessions (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. While Full Value Protection is more expensive, it offers better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it has less coverage. With this option, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy when you move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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