10 best long-distance moving companies in Allison Park, PA

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

Hiring the right movers can help alleviate your issues. We've compiled this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Allison Park so you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in a few ways. Local movers generally provide moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

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

Local Allison Park movers may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Allison Park

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in Allison Park requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and fits your budget. See the list below for some advice on finding a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Allison Park.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, inquire about the options provided by your mover. To completely protect your possessions during the move, we suggest obtaining personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. We discuss long-distance moving insurance options in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to provide customers with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: We recommend seeking out quotes several months ahead of your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to get itemized quotes from several long-distance movers in Allison Park. As you compare quotes, ensure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies have financing plans. A moving or relocation loan can help with expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few loans to make sure you choose 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 others have said about certain long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable 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 get a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Allison Park, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment upfront. If a mover has an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Booking your movers far enough in advance is key for a successful long-distance move. To ensure a stress-free move, book your movers no less than three months before your move date, and potentially even more if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. You probably have valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of all the necessary tasks before and after your move, such as notifying the Pennsylvania DMV of your new address.

Put together necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and medications.

The night before moving day, don't forget to get a good night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain items that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. Full Value Protection is pricier but includes more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it has less coverage. This option requires your moving company to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Driver & Vehicle Services U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration