10 best long-distance moving companies in Wilkes-Barre, PA

Long-distance or interstate moves bring 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.

Selecting the right moving professionals can help ease your problems. We've made this overview of the best long-distance movers in Wilkes-Barre so you, your family, and your belongings get to your new home without any problems.

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 be aware of. Local movers only operate within a specific geographic radius and frequently charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to these requests at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies typically 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 movers use a combination of time and weight to calculate their rates, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific location and potentially offer less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves is invaluable. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the proper 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 Wilkes-Barre

Picking the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options can feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of finding a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Wilkes-Barre, we've put together some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to completely protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: We suggest asking for quotes several months ahead of your move. Contact multiple long-distance moving providers in Wilkes-Barre and get itemized quotes. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can cover cost. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple choices to make sure you select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what previous customers say about certain long-distance movers. You should also ask neighbors and loved ones for 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 for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to get a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Wilkes-Barre, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that offer “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding estimates. Additionally, trustworthy movers won't ask for the full payment before the move. Avoid movers that have 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

Finding your movers well before your move date is essential when getting ready for a long-distance move. We recommend booking your move at least three months beforehand, or even earlier if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. You might choose to keep certain fragile, valuable, or sentimental items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Put together a list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move. The list should include things such as updating your address with the Pennsylvania DMV.

Put together essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as extra clothes, medicine, and toothbrushes.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves 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. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some movers might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it has less coverage. With this plan, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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