10 best long-distance moving companies in Madison, OH

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

Put your mind at ease by picking the best moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve created this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Madison to help you, your family, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only offer local moves. 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 radius and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies are more likely to charge by time. However, some providers use a mix of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when it comes to moving between states. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress 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 Madison

Finding the right long-distance mover in Madison requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. To help you navigate the process of finding a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Madison, we've collected some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can ask about these or other insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. In addition to the insurance options provided by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to provide customers with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have adequate time to plan your move. Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Madison and get itemized quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs 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 have financing plans. A moving or relocation loan can with cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several options allows you to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others think about certain long-distance moving companies. You should also ask neighbors and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to get a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Madison, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your full payment upfront. Avoid movers with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Booking your moving company well before your move date is key for a successful long-distance move. It's best if you schedule your move at least three months beforehand. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

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

Create a list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move. The list should include items 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 medicine, extra clothes, and toothbrushes.

The night before your big move, remember to get a full night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is a must for long-distance moves. It'll give you money back if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions 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. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less coverage. If you choose this insurance, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of 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