10 best long-distance moving companies in Clearfield, UT

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

Alleviate your concerns by hiring the best moving professionals for the job. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive at your new home safely, we've compiled this list of the leading long-distance movers in Clearfield.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only do local moves. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only offer services within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

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

Local Clearfield movers may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance moving companies 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 Clearfield

Picking the right long-distance mover in Clearfield requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. Here are some tips for picking a legitimate long-distance mover in Clearfield.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, asking about these or other options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance coverage offered by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance coverage in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers supply customers with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have plenty of time to plan your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to request detailed quotes from several long-distance movers in Clearfield. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help with cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several loans allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what others have said about specific long-distance moving companies. Friends and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be challenging and more expensive to hire a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that give you “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding quotes. Additionally, trustworthy movers won't ask for the full payment before the move. Steer clear of movers with an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

An important piece of advice for long-distance moves is to reserve your movers far enough in advance. We recommend booking movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano or car moving.

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

We also recommend 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 Utah DMV.

Pack a suitcase with essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as toothbrushes, medicine, and extra clothes.

The night before moving day, remember to get a good night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies 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 in the long-run you'll get more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it provides less coverage. With this plan, 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 cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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