5 best long-distance moving companies in Lawton, OK

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

The right moving professionals can help lessen your worries. We've made this list of the top long-distance movers in Lawton so you, your family, and your possessions make it to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only do local moves. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to charge based on time, while long-distance movers more likely to charge based on the weight they're moving. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when calculating their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves can't be beaten. Hiring a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Lawton

Picking the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options may feel overwhelming. See the list below for some recommendations on choosing a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Lawton.

• 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. For long-distance moves within the same state, looking into these or other insurance options is a good idea. To completely protect your belongings during the move, we suggest purchasing your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We advise seeking out quotes several months ahead of your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to get detailed quotes from several long-distance movers in Lawton. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing options to help you afford your move. A moving or relocation loan can cover expenses. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several loans to make sure you find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what other customers have said about certain long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that provide “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding estimates. Reputable movers generally won't demand your complete payment upfront. Avoid moving companies with a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to find your moving company well in advance of your move date. We advise scheduling your move at least three months beforehand, or possibly earlier if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we advise starting a month beforehand. When it comes to valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

Putting together a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Oklahoma 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 toiletries, extra clothes, and medications.

Finally, make sure to get plenty of rest the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers have to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to repair, replace, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but offers more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less coverage. If you choose this option, your moving company will pay 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 during your move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

Oklahoma Department of Public Safety U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration