10 best long-distance moving companies in Fitchburg, WI

There are a variety of importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against concerns such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

The right movers can help put your mind at ease. We've made this overview of the top long-distance movers in Fitchburg so you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only assist with local moves. Local moving companies only offer services within a specific geographic area and often charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such jobs at all.

Local movers are also more likely to charge based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight they're moving. Some movers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to determine their prices, so it's important to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

Although local movers may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when it comes to moving from one state to another. Hiring a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Fitchburg

Hiring the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices may be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of choosing a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Fitchburg, we've collected some advice below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, asking about these or other options is a good idea. To fully protect your belongings during the move, we recommend obtaining personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance coverage 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 movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to supply clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Fitchburg several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing options to help you afford your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good strategy to help pay for some of the expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several choices allows you to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what previous customers say about particular long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to book a moving company. Fitchburg also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Additionally, reputable movers shouldn’t request the full payment before the move. Avoid moving companies with a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your movers far enough in advance is extremely important for a successful long-distance move. We suggest booking your move at least three months ahead of time, or possibly earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. When it comes to fragile, valuable, or sentimental items, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Writing a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Wisconsin DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Put together essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as toiletries, extra clothes, and medicine.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is vital because it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers are required to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. 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. If you choose this plan, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. It may be helpful to review your policy, 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