10 best long-distance moving companies in Greenfield, WI

There are several importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about concerns such as how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Picking the right movers can help alleviate your concerns. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings reach your new home safely, we've compiled this list of the top long-distance movers in Greenfield.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in many ways. Local moving companies only operate within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to these requests at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically set fees based on the weight of your items, while local movers more often set fees based on how long a job takes. Some movers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to set their final cost, so it's important to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Although local movers may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, especially when 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 headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Greenfield

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options may be overwhelming, making it challenging to select the right one for your move. See the list below for some advice on choosing a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Greenfield.

• 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 ask about these or similar options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. In addition to the insurance choices carried by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your possessions. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers supply clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Greenfield several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing options. A moving or relocation loan can cover cost. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several options allows you to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others have said about specific long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means movers may be harder to book and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months. Since Greenfield is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you suspicious. Trustworthy moving companies generally won't request your complete payment upfront. If a mover has a 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

Scheduling your moving company far enough ahead of time is extremely important when preparing for a long-distance move. We advise hiring movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need more specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. You probably have valuable, fragile, or sentimental belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Make a list of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move. The list should include things such as updating your address with the Wisconsin DMV.

Put together necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as medicine, extra clothes, and toiletries.

The night before moving day, don't forget to get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers have 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. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable items (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 for free, but it has less coverage. If you choose this plan, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are lost or damaged.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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