10 best long-distance moving companies in Marion, OH

There are factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Alleviate your issues by choosing the right movers for the job. That’s why we’ve compiled this overview of the top long-distance movers in Marion to help you, your family, and your possessions arrive 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 do local moves. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only operate within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee 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 by weight, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on time. Keep in mind that certain movers might incorporate both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Local Marion movers may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. These companies are more likely to have the right 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 Marion

Finding the right long-distance mover in Marion requires research to make sure 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 mover in Marion, we've compiled some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, looking into these or other insurance options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance coverage offered by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies 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 qualified mover. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to provide clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Marion several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing options to help you afford your move. A moving or relocation loan can pay for some of the cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend looking into several choices to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others say about particular long-distance moving companies. You should also ask friends and relatives 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 to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to hire a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Additionally, trustworthy movers shouldn’t request the full payment before the move. Steer clear of movers with 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 key tip for long-distance moves is to reserve your movers far enough ahead of time. We advise booking your move at least 90 days ahead of time, or even earlier if you need more specialized 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 prefer to keep certain valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as artwork 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 suitcase with items such as toiletries, medications, and extra clothes.

The night before moving day, don't forget to get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but offers greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it gives you reduced coverage. If you choose this plan, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions 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. This typically 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