10 best long-distance moving companies in Mount Lebanon, PA

Long-distance or interstate moves present unique challenges that distinguish them from local moves. 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.

Put your mind at ease by hiring the best moving professionals for the job. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home without incident, we've compiled this list of the best long-distance movers in Mount Lebanon.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ from those that only do local moves. Local moving companies only operate within a specific geographic area and frequently charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such requests at all.

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

Local Mount Lebanon moving companies are typically more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance moving companies 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 Mount Lebanon

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options may be overwhelming, making it difficult to select the right one for your needs. Below, we provide some guidance on how to choose a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Mount Lebanon.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can inquire about these or similar options for long-distance moves within the same state. In addition to the insurance coverage carried by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to provide clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: We advise looking for quotes several months before your move. Get itemized cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Mount Lebanon. Make sure these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer 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 mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few loans to make sure you get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what others have said about particular long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to hire and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Mount Lebanon 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: Movers that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you cautious. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your full payment before the move. Steer clear of movers with an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your movers well before your move date is key when preparing for a long-distance move. We suggest scheduling movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You probably have sentimental, valuable, or fragile belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Make a list of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move. The list should include tasks such as updating your address with the Pennsylvania DMV.

Pack essentials for the first few days of your move, such as extra clothes, toothbrushes, and medications.

Finally, make sure to get plenty of rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves because it'll protect 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 repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection is pricier, it gives you better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it gives less coverage. This insurance requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged 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 after you 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