10 best long-distance moving companies in Caledonia, WI

Long-distance or interstate moves present their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

The right moving professionals can help ease your worries. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to the best long-distance movers in Caledonia 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 perform long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only do local moves. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically 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.

Local moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight. Some moving providers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to set their rates, so it's important to check your provider's pricing structure.

Local Caledonia movers may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Caledonia

When you're hiring a long-distance mover, the wide range of choices can feel overwhelming. Below, we have compiled some recommendations on how to find a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Caledonia.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can inquire about these or similar insurance options. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to better protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Start seeking out estimates several months before your move. Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Caledonia and get detailed cost breakdowns. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing plans. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good choice to help cover expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several options allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what previous clients say about certain long-distance moving companies. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be difficult and costlier to hire a moving company. Caledonia also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that give you “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding prices. Additionally, trustworthy moving companies shouldn’t ask for the full payment before the move. If a mover has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A good piece of advice for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough in advance. We suggest booking your move at least 90 days ahead of time, or possibly earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. When it comes to fragile, sentimental, or valuable items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

Put together 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 necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as toothbrushes, medications, and extra clothes.

The night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but gives you more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it has less protection. This plan requires your moving company to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover 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

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