10 best long-distance moving companies in Lima, OH

Long-distance or interstate moves have their own challenges that set them apart from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Lessen your problems by selecting the right movers for the job. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've compiled this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Lima.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only assist with local moves. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only work within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies usually set fees based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies typically charge based on the time required for your move. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when setting their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Lima

Picking the right long-distance mover in Lima requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. See the list below for some recommendations on choosing a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Lima.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, inquiring about these or other insurance options is a good idea. To fully protect your possessions during the move, we recommend purchasing your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers supply a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We suggest seeking out quotes several months before your move. Contact several long-distance moving providers in Lima and ask for itemized quotes. Make sure these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies have financing options. A moving or relocation loan can help cover expenses. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several options allows you to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what other customers think about specific long-distance movers. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be challenging and more expensive to hire a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in Lima, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Trustworthy moving companies generally won't ask for your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies that have an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to find your moving company well in advance of your move date. To ensure an easy move, book your movers no less than 90 days ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. When it comes to valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

It's also a good idea to make a checklist of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, 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, medications, and toiletries.

The night before your big move, remember to 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 some of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. Full Value Protection is more expensive but includes more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less protection. If you choose this plan, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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