10 best long-distance moving companies in Fond du Lac, WI

Long-distance or interstate moves have their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Choosing the right moving professionals can help alleviate your concerns. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've put together this list of the top long-distance movers in Fond du Lac.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in a few ways. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only work within a certain geographic radius 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 belongings, while local moving companies often set fees based on the length of time needed for your move. Keep in mind that some moving companies might use both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when it comes to moving between states. Hiring a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical 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 Fond du Lac

Picking the right long-distance mover in Fond du Lac requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. Below, we offer some recommendations on how to pick a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Fond du Lac.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or other insurance options. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to fully protect your possessions. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Fond du Lac several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Make sure these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies have financing plans. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several choices allows you to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others thought about specific long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. You should also ask neighbors and loved ones for 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 costlier to hire a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Additionally, trustworthy moving companies shouldn’t request the full payment before the move. Steer clear of movers that have an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. 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 secure your moving company well in advance of your move date. We suggest scheduling your move at least three months ahead of time, or even earlier if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we advise starting a month ahead of time. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

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

Pack essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as toiletries, extra clothes, and medications.

Finally, make sure to get a good night’s sleep the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers have to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide money back for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it has less coverage. This insurance requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. While this typically 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