10 best long-distance moving companies in Cranberry, PA

Long-distance or interstate moves present their own challenges that set them apart from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

Hiring the right moving professionals can help alleviate your issues. We've compiled this guide to the best long-distance movers in Cranberry 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 several key differences to consider. Local movers generally provide moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

Local moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight they're moving. However, some movers use a mix of time and weight to set their prices, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

Local Cranberry moving companies are typically more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when moving between states. 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 Cranberry

When you're hiring a long-distance mover, the wide range of options can be overwhelming. Below, we offer some recommendations on how to pick a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Cranberry.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer 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. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to completely protect your possessions. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance choices 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 taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Cranberry several months before your move and get detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies have financing options. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few options to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what previous clients think about specific long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to get and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Since Cranberry is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that provide “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding prices. Trustworthy movers generally won't demand your complete payment upfront. If a moving company 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

Reserving your movers well before your move date is key when preparing for a long-distance move. It's best if you book 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 specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we suggest starting a month beforehand. You probably have fragile, valuable, or sentimental belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Writing a checklist of all the things that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Pennsylvania DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Put together essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as extra clothes, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and medicine.

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you 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 provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but provides better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it has less protection. This option requires your movers to reimburse 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