10 best long-distance moving companies in Riverton, UT

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in a variety of ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against concerns like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

The right moving company can help lessen your challenges. That’s why we’ve created this list of the best long-distance movers in Riverton to help you, your family, and your belongings get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are several key differences to keep in mind. Local movers only work within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such jobs at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers typically charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers often set fees based on the length of time needed for your move. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Although local movers may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when it comes to moving between states. Choosing a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Riverton

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the choices can feel overwhelming, making it challenging to hire the right one for your move. To help you navigate the process of finding a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Riverton, we've collected some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds 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, looking into these or other options is a good idea. To better protect your belongings during the move, we suggest purchasing personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a qualified mover. 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: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Riverton several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, ensure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services 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 pay for some of the cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several loans allows you to get 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 others have said about particular long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your friends and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to get and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Because there are so many college students living in Riverton, the beginning and end of the semesters 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 quote is a red flag. Legitimate movers generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment upfront. If a moving company has an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Securing your movers far enough in advance is key when preparing for a long-distance move. To ensure a stress-free move, book your movers no less than 90 days ahead of your move date, and possibly even more if you need more unique services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we suggest getting started a month in advance. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

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

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

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is a must for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it has less coverage. This option requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items 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. While this typically 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