10 best long-distance moving companies in Sandy, UT

There are a range of factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may encounter higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move your car.

The right moving company can help lessen your issues. That’s why we’ve put together this overview of the top long-distance movers in Sandy to help you, your family, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only offer 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 fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies usually set fees based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies usually set fees based on the time needed for your move. Keep in mind that some moving companies might use both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Local Sandy movers may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Sandy

Finding the right long-distance mover in Sandy requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. See the list below for some recommendations on choosing a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Sandy.

• 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 customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, looking into these or other insurance options is a good idea. To better protect your belongings during the move, we suggest purchasing your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Sandy several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might 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 take out a moving or relocation loan to help cover cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several options allows you to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what other customers think about certain long-distance movers. Friends and loved ones 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 to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to hire a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Sandy, 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 quote is a red flag. Additionally, trustworthy moving companies won't ask for the full payment upfront. If a mover has an extensive history of bad 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

A useful piece of advice for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough in advance. It's best if you plan your move at least 90 days in advance. This gives you plenty of time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need more specialized services, like piano or car moving.

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

To stay organized, make a detailed list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as notifying the Utah DMV of your new address.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days of your move, such as toothbrushes, extra clothes, and medications.

The night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers must offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some movers may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection is pricier, it gives you better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it has less protection. With this option, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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