10 best long-distance moving companies in Brookfield, WI

There are 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.

Hiring the right movers can help relieve your challenges. That’s why we’ve compiled this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Brookfield to help you, your family, and your possessions make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only offer local moves. Local moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic radius. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies are more likely to charge based on how long a job takes. Certain moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when setting their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

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

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Brookfield

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options can feel overwhelming, making it challenging to hire the right one for you. Here are some tips for choosing a trustworthy long-distance mover in Brookfield.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. In addition to the insurance options provided by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: We suggest looking for quotes several months ahead of your move. Get itemized quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Brookfield. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We suggest looking into several options to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what other customers think about specific long-distance movers. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be difficult and costlier to book a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in Brookfield, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that give you “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding quotes. Additionally, legitimate movers won't demand the full payment upfront. If a mover has a 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

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to schedule your moving company well in advance of your move date. To ensure a stress-free move, hire your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and possibly even more if you need more unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we recommend starting a month in advance. You might choose to keep certain sentimental, valuable, or fragile possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Write a list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move. The list should include things such as updating your address with the Wisconsin DMV.

Pack a suitcase with necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, medications, and extra clothes.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll pay you back if any of your items are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable possessions (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. 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 at no additional cost, but it provides less protection. With this option, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

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

Sources

State of Wisconsin Department of Transportation U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration