10 best long-distance moving companies in Lancaster, OH

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in significant ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

Choosing the right moving professionals can help relieve your concerns. That’s why we’ve created this overview of the top long-distance movers in Lancaster to help you, your family, and your possessions make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in a few ways. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to 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 more often set fees based on how long a job takes. Certain moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when setting their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer less expensive rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves is indispensable. Using 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 Lancaster

Picking the right long-distance moving company in Lancaster requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. To help you navigate the process of picking a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Lancaster, we've compiled some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, inquire about the insurance options provided by your mover. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Lancaster several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing options to help you afford your move. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help with expenses. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We suggest looking into several options to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what others think about certain long-distance movers. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and relatives.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to get and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment before the move. Avoid movers that have an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful tip for long-distance moves is to book your movers far enough in advance. It's best if you book your move at least 90 days beforehand. This gives you enough time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might choose to keep certain sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Making 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.

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

Lastly, make sure to get plenty of rest the night before moving day.

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.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain belongings that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. Full Value Protection is more expensive but provides more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less coverage. With this option, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy during your move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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