10 best long-distance moving companies in Stow, OH

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in many ways. When you're moving long-distance, you may have to deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move your car.

Picking the right movers can help alleviate your concerns. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the leading long-distance movers in Stow to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in several ways. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only work within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies often charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies commonly charge based on the length of time needed for your move. Some moving providers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to determine their final cost, so it's important to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, especially when it comes to moving between states. Long-distance moving companies 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 Stow

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the choices can feel overwhelming, making it challenging to select the right one for your move. See the list below for some tips on choosing a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Stow.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can ask about these or similar options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. We also suggest getting your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed discussion 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 enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to provide a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Stow several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices 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, plenty of moving companies offer financing options. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help with cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise researching several choices to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what other customers have said about specific long-distance movers. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means movers may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Legitimate moving companies generally shouldn't demand your complete payment before the move. Steer clear of movers with a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Securing your movers far enough in advance is extremely important when getting ready for a long-distance move. To ensure a stress-free move, schedule your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and possibly even more if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You might choose to keep certain fragile, sentimental, or valuable items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Putting together a checklist of all the things that need to be done both 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.

Put together a suitcase with essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as medicine, extra clothes, and toiletries.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is key because it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers are required to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any items 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. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you greater coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it provides reduced coverage. If you choose this plan, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings 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 after you move. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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