10 best long-distance moving companies in Franklin, OH

Long-distance or interstate moves include unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with concerns like how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Put your mind at ease 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 safely, we've put together this overview of the best long-distance movers in Franklin.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in a few ways. Local movers only work within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to these requests at all.

Local movers are also more likely to charge based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. Certain moving companies may use a combination 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 less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, especially when it comes to moving from one state to another. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Franklin

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options may be overwhelming, making it difficult to hire the right one for your move. Below, we offer some guidance on how to choose a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Franklin.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar options for long-distance moves inside one state. In addition to the insurance options carried by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers provide a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We recommend seeking out quotes several months before your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to get detailed quotes from several long-distance movers in Franklin. Ensure these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing options. A moving or relocation loan can help cover cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several loans allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what other clients thought about particular long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means movers may be harder to book 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. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your full payment upfront. Avoid moving companies with an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to reserve your moving company well before of your move date. We recommend scheduling your move at least 90 days ahead of time, 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 valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Writing a checklist of all the things that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Ohio DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days of your move, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, medications, and extra clothes.

The night before moving day, remember to get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers must have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. While Full Value Protection costs more, it provides more coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it gives you less protection. With this plan, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. 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