10 best long-distance moving companies in Penn Hills, PA

There are a range of importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move your car.

The right moving company can help alleviate your challenges. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Penn Hills to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions arrive safely to your new home.

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 keep in mind. Local movers usually only work within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies commonly set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers usually charge based on the time needed for your move. Some movers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to set their prices, so it's important to check your provider's pricing structure.

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

When you're hiring a long-distance moving company, the wide range of choices can be overwhelming. Below, we offer some tips on how to find a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Penn Hills.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two kinds of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is inside one state, inquire about the insurance options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance options carried by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your possessions. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance options 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 qualified company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to provide a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in Penn Hills several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Make sure these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies offer financing options. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help cover expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare a few options to make sure you find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what other customers think about particular 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 to move. This can make it harder and costlier to get a moving company. Penn Hills also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you suspicious. Additionally, legitimate moving companies shouldn’t ask for the full payment upfront. If a moving company has a long 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

A useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to hire your moving company well before of your move date. To ensure a stress-free move, hire your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need more unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

We also advise making a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Pennsylvania DMV.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by putting together a suitcase with items such as extra clothes, medications, and toothbrushes.

The night before moving day, don't forget to get a good night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll give you money back if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some movers might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less protection. With this insurance, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy after you move. While this typically 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