10 best long-distance moving companies in Norman, OK

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in many 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.

The right moving company can help relieve your issues. That’s why we’ve created this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Norman to help you, your family, and your possessions arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are different in several ways. Local moving companies only offer services within a specific geographic radius and often charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to these requests at all.

Local movers are also more likely to charge based on how long a job takes, while long-distance movers more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. Some moving providers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to set their prices, so it's important to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves is indispensable. These companies are more likely to have the relevant 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 Norman

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options can be overwhelming, making it difficult to hire the right one for you. See the list below for some tips on choosing a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Norman.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, ask about the insurance options provided by your mover. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance plans in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to supply customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Norman several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Ensure these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing plans to help you pay for your move. A moving or relocation loan can help cover cost. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several choices allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what previous customers think about certain long-distance moving companies. You should also ask friends and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, 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. Norman also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you suspicious. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies that have a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

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

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. When it comes to valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

We also advise making a checklist of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Oklahoma DMV.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days, such as extra clothes, medicine, and toiletries.

The night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain possessions that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection costs more but includes better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it gives less protection. With this insurance, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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