10 best long-distance moving companies in Scranton, PA

There are a variety of importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues such as how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

Put your mind at ease by choosing the best movers for the job. We've put together this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Scranton so you, your family, and your belongings arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are distinct in several ways. Local movers often only work within a certain geographic area. They'll usually charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

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

Local Scranton moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Scranton

When you're hiring a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of choices may be overwhelming. Here are some tips for finding a trustworthy long-distance mover in Scranton.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of 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 other options. To fully protect your belongings during the move, we recommend obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to supply a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Scranton several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include prices 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 plans. A moving or relocation loan can with expenses. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We suggest researching several choices to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others thought about certain long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, get recommendations from your friends and family.
• 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 more expensive to book a mover. Since Scranton is home to so many college students, June and August 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 quotes. Reliable movers generally won't demand your complete payment upfront. If a moving company has a long history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Hiring your moving company well before your move date is essential for a successful long-distance move. We suggest scheduling movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need more specialized moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

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

To stay organized, prepare a detailed list of all the necessary tasks before and after your move, such as notifying the Pennsylvania DMV of your new address.

Pack necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as medicine, extra clothes, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if some of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but offers greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it has less coverage. This option requires your moving company to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings damaged or lost during the move.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may cover some of your belongings during your 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