10 best long-distance moving companies in Bethlehem, PA

There are a range of factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against challenges such as how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Selecting the right movers can help lessen your issues. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've compiled this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Bethlehem.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only assist with local moves. Local movers usually only offer services within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers more often set fees based on how long a job takes. Keep in mind that some moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific location and potentially offer less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves is indispensable. 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 headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Bethlehem

When you're picking a long-distance mover, the wide range of options may feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for picking a legitimate, reliable long-distance moving company in Bethlehem.

• 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 is inside one state, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance choices carried by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed overview 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 complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to supply clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Bethlehem several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Ensure these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can with expenses. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We recommend looking into several loans to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what previous customers have said about specific long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and more expensive to book a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Bethlehem, the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that provide “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding prices. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your entire payment upfront. If a mover has an extensive history of bad 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

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to find your moving company well before of your move date. To ensure an easy move, book your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and possibly even more if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. When it comes to fragile, valuable, or sentimental belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as notifying the Pennsylvania DMV of your new address.

Put together a suitcase with necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as medications, toiletries, and extra clothes.

Lastly, make sure to get enough rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll provide reimbursement if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to replace, repair, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but includes more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it has less protection. With this option, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged possessions.

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

Sources

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