10 best long-distance moving companies in Middleton, WI

Long-distance or interstate moves bring their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges like how to move your car.

Ease your issues by picking the right moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Middleton to help you, your family, and your possessions arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge by weight, while local movers more often set fees based on how long a job takes. Certain moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when calculating their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer more affordable rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves is indispensable. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Middleton

Picking the right long-distance mover is important, and the options may be overwhelming. See the list below for some guidance on picking a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Middleton.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. To fully protect your possessions during the move, we suggest getting personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Middleton 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 might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good choice to help cover cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several choices allows you to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others have said about certain long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be difficult and more expensive to get a moving company. Since Middleton is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you wary. Reputable movers generally won't request your complete payment before the move. Steer clear of movers that have a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your moving company far enough in advance is extremely important for a successful long-distance move. We advise scheduling your move at least 90 days beforehand, or possibly earlier if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You might prefer to keep certain valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Make 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 a bag of essentials for the first few days of your move, such as extra clothes, medicine, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

The night before your big move, remember to get a good night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is key 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. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. Some movers might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get better coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it gives you less protection. With this insurance, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged belongings.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. 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