10 best long-distance moving companies in New Berlin, WI

There are many factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues like how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

Ease your worries by hiring the best movers for the job. That’s why we’ve compiled this overview of the top long-distance movers in New Berlin to help you, your family, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are different in several ways. Local moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a significant fee to do so.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies usually charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies typically set fees based on the time required for your move. Keep in mind that some movers 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 more affordable), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, especially when moving between states. Choosing 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 New Berlin

Finding the right long-distance mover in New Berlin requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and fits your budget. To help you navigate the process of finding a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in New Berlin, we've compiled some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their clients: 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. To better protect your possessions during the move, we recommend purchasing personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies 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 policies such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in New Berlin several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise researching several options to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what previous customers think about certain long-distance moving companies. Friends 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 hire and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months. New Berlin also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you suspicious. Reputable moving companies generally won't request your complete payment before the move. Avoid moving companies 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

Booking your moving company far enough ahead of time is key for a successful 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 by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might prefer to keep certain possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

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

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

Finally, make sure to get enough rest the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers need to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but offers more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it provides 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 keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may cover some of 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