10 best long-distance moving companies in Delaware, OH

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in a variety of ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against concerns such as how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Ease your problems by hiring the best moving professionals for the job. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home without incident, we've compiled this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Delaware.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only assist with local moves. Local moving companies only operate within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to such jobs at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to charge based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when setting their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be more affordable), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly 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 Delaware

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in Delaware requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. Below, we provide some recommendations on how to find a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Delaware.

• 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. You can ask about these or similar options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance plans in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to provide a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months in advance to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. Reach out to multiple long-distance moving providers in Delaware and ask for itemized cost breakdowns. Confirm that these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several choices to make sure you find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what previous clients thought about certain long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. You should also ask friends and loved ones for recommendations.
• 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.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Legitimate movers generally shouldn't demand your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of movers with a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

An important tip for long-distance moves is to reserve your movers far enough ahead of time. We recommend booking your move at least three months beforehand, or possibly 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 without professional help. You probably have sentimental, valuable, or fragile belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Make 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.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by putting together a bag with items such as extra clothes, toothbrushes, and medications.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is a must for long-distance moves. It'll cover the cost if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some movers might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less protection. This plan requires your moving company to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. This usually 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