10 best long-distance moving companies in Draper, UT

There are several importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with challenges such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Put your mind at ease by hiring the best movers for the job. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home safely, we've put together this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Draper.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are many key differences to consider. Local moving companies only operate within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to such requests at all.

Local movers are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight. Some moving providers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to calculate their prices, so it's important to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

Local Draper moving companies are typically more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when moving between states. These companies are more likely to have the right 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 Draper

Picking the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices can feel overwhelming. See the list below for some tips on choosing a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Draper.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of insurance coverage: 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. In addition to the insurance choices provided by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to provide a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start seeking out estimates several months ahead of your move. Get detailed cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Draper. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing plans. A moving or relocation loan can pay for some of the cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple loans to make sure you find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what previous customers have said about particular long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be challenging and costlier to get a moving company. Draper also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you cautious. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment before the move. If a mover has a long history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable 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 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we recommend getting started a month ahead of time. You probably have valuable, sentimental, or fragile belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than in the moving truck.

It's also a good idea to make a checklist of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Utah DMV.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a bag with items such as toiletries, extra clothes, and medicine.

The night before moving day, remember to get enough rest.

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 have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but offers more coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it has reduced coverage. This option requires your moving company to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy during your move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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