10 best long-distance moving companies in Upper Macungie, PA

There are a range of importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges such as how to move your car.

The right moving company can help alleviate your worries. We've made this guide to the top long-distance movers in Upper Macungie so you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only assist with local moves. Local moving companies generally offer moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a significant fee to do so.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies commonly set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers typically set fees based on the length of time required for your move. However, some providers use a mix of time and weight to calculate their rates, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

Local Upper Macungie moving companies are often more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when moving between states. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Upper Macungie

Finding the right long-distance moving company in Upper Macungie requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. Here are some tips for choosing a trustworthy long-distance mover in Upper Macungie.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. To completely protect your belongings during the move, we recommend obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start seeking out estimates several months before your move. Get in touch with several long-distance moving providers in Upper Macungie and ask for detailed cost breakdowns. Ensure these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing options as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can pay for some of the cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We suggest looking into several loans to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what other customers have said about particular long-distance movers. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be difficult and more expensive to book a mover. Since Upper Macungie is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your entire payment upfront. Avoid moving companies with a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to reserve your moving company well in advance of your move date. We advise hiring movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. When it comes to valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Writing 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, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

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

Finally, make sure to get a good night’s sleep the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is critical because it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain belongings that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection is more expensive but gives you more coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it provides reduced coverage. This insurance requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy when you move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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