10 best long-distance moving companies in Harrisburg, PA

There are several factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may be dealing with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Hiring the right movers can help relieve your issues. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home safely, we've created this guide to the top long-distance movers in Harrisburg.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are some key differences to note. Local movers usually only operate within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers usually charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies commonly set fees based on the time required for your move. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when calculating their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when it comes to moving from one state to another. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Harrisburg

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices may feel overwhelming, making it challenging to select the right one for your move. Below, we have compiled some advice on how to choose a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Harrisburg.

• 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, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Harrisburg several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, ensure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing options to help you afford your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple loans to make sure you choose the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what other customers say about specific long-distance moving companies. You should also ask friends and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to book and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months. Harrisburg also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that give you “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding estimates. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your entire payment before the move. If a moving company has a long history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Scheduling your movers far enough in advance is key for a successful long-distance move. To ensure an easy move, hire your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and possibly even more if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You probably have fragile, valuable, or sentimental belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than in the moving truck.

To stay organized, write 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.

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

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers need to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it gives less protection. With this insurance, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged items.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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