10 best long-distance moving companies in North Ridgeville, OH

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in several ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges like how to move your car.

Lessen your problems by selecting the right moving professionals for the job. We've compiled this list of the best long-distance movers in North Ridgeville so you, your family, and your belongings get to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only offer local moves. Local movers only offer services within a specific geographic area and often charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to these requests at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to charge by time. Some movers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to determine their final cost, so it's important to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Local North Ridgeville moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Long-distance movers 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 North Ridgeville

Selecting the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices can feel overwhelming. Below, we offer some recommendations on how to pick a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in North Ridgeville.

• 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. You can look into these or similar options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. In addition to the insurance coverage carried by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in North Ridgeville several months before your move and get detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing plans to help you afford your move. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several choices allows you to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about certain long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, get recommendations from your friends and family.
• 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 get a moving company. North Ridgeville also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you suspicious. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment before the move. Avoid moving companies with an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to reserve your moving company well in advance of your move date. We recommend hiring movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we recommend starting a month ahead of time. You probably have sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than 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, such as medications, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and extra clothes.

Finally, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but includes better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less coverage. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are damaged or lost.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may cover some of your belongings 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