10 best long-distance moving companies in American Fork, UT

Long-distance or interstate moves present their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

Lessen your problems by picking the right moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to the top long-distance movers in American Fork to help you, your family, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in many ways. 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 much higher rate to do so.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers are more likely to charge based on time. However, some companies use a mix of time and weight to calculate their prices, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

Local American Fork moving companies are generally more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and experience, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in American Fork

Selecting the right long-distance mover is important, and the options may feel overwhelming. See the list below for some tips on picking a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in American Fork.

• 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. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or similar options. In addition to the insurance coverage provided by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance choices 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 handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers provide a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months in advance to ensure you have adequate time to plan your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to ask for itemized cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in American Fork. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing plans to help you afford your move. A moving or relocation loan can with expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several options allows you to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what previous clients think about certain 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 for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to book a moving company. American Fork also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• 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 mover that asks for your entire 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

A valuable piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to find your moving company well in advance of your move date. We recommend scheduling your move at least 90 days in advance, or possibly earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. When it comes to fragile, sentimental, or valuable items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

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

Put together essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, toiletries, and medications.

The night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable items (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. Full Value Protection costs more but gives you more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it gives less coverage. If you choose this option, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

Utah Division of Motor Vehicles U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration