8 best long-distance moving companies in Millcreek, PA

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in many ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Selecting the right moving professionals can help lessen your issues. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive at your new home safely, we've compiled this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Millcreek.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only do local moves. Local movers only operate within a specific geographic radius and frequently charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to these jobs at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies are more likely to charge based on time. Keep in mind that some movers might use both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Local Millcreek movers may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the right 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 Millcreek

Picking the right long-distance moving company in Millcreek requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. To help you navigate the process of finding a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Millcreek, we've put together some advice below.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or similar insurance options. In addition to the insurance options carried by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance plans 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 enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers supply a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start asking for estimates several months ahead of your move. Get in touch with several long-distance moving providers in Millcreek and request detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing plans. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare several choices to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what others have said about certain long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your friends and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to book and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months. Since Millcreek is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that give you “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding quotes. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your entire payment before the move. Steer clear of movers that have a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A great piece of advice for long-distance moves is to reserve your movers far enough in advance. We advise booking movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. When it comes to fragile, sentimental, or valuable belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

It's also a good idea to make a checklist of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Pennsylvania DMV.

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

The night before moving day, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll cover the cost if any of your items are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers have to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide money back for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Although Full Value Protection is pricier, it offers more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less protection. With this plan, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged possessions.

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, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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