10 best long-distance moving companies in South Salt Lake, UT

Long-distance or interstate moves bring their own challenges that set them apart from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with concerns like how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Picking the right moving professionals can help lessen your challenges. We've compiled this overview of the best long-distance movers in South Salt Lake so you, your family, and your belongings make it to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are a few key differences to be aware of. 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 more often charge based on how long a job takes. However, some movers use a mix of time and weight to set their prices, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

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

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in South Salt Lake

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in South Salt Lake requires research to make sure the company meets your needs and fits your budget. To help you navigate the process of picking a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in South Salt Lake, we've put together some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or similar options. To completely protect your belongings during the move, we suggest getting personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to provide customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in South Salt Lake several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies offer financing plans. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help with expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few loans to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what others say about certain long-distance moving companies. You should also ask friends and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. South Salt Lake also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you wary. Additionally, reputable moving companies won't request the full payment before the move. If a mover has a long history of poor 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 well before your move date is essential for a successful long-distance move. To ensure an easy move, book your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and potentially even more if you need unique 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 might choose to keep certain valuable, fragile, or sentimental possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, prepare a detailed list of everything that needs to be done 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 extra clothes, medications, and toiletries.

Lastly, make sure to get plenty of rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers are required to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but includes more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less protection. This insurance requires your movers to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over 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