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

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in many ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against challenges such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Lessen your issues by hiring the best movers for the job. We've put together this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Bethel Park so you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are a few key differences to keep in mind. Local moving companies only operate within a specific geographic radius and often charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to such requests at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies typically charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies often set fees based on the length of time required for your move. Keep in mind that some movers might incorporate both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

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

Hiring the right long-distance mover is important, and the options can be overwhelming. See the list below for some tips on choosing a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Bethel Park.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two kinds of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar options for long-distance moves inside one state. To better protect your belongings during the move, we recommend purchasing your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to supply customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Bethel Park several months before your move and get detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing plans to help you afford your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several options allows you to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what other clients say about certain long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and relatives.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be difficult and more expensive to hire a moving company. Bethel Park 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: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Additionally, trustworthy movers won't ask for the full payment upfront. If a mover has an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A great tip for long-distance moves is to reserve your movers far enough ahead of time. It's best if you plan your move at least three months ahead of time. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need more specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

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

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by putting together a bag with items such as medicine, extra clothes, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

Lastly, make sure to get a full night’s sleep the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves because it'll pay you back if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

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 items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. Full Value Protection is pricier but offers more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it has less coverage. With this option, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you 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

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