10 best long-distance moving companies in Oak Creek, WI

Long-distance or interstate moves have their own challenges that set them apart from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about concerns like how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

The right moving professionals can help lessen your challenges. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive at your new home without incident, we've put together this guide to the best long-distance movers in Oak Creek.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are several key differences to be aware of. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only work within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to charge based on how long a job takes, while long-distance movers more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. Some moving providers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to set their final cost, so it's necessary to check your provider's pricing structure.

Local Oak Creek moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Oak Creek

Choosing the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options may feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of picking a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Oak Creek, we've put together some advice below.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, looking into these or similar insurance options is a good idea. To fully protect your possessions during the move, we suggest getting personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. We discuss long-distance moving insurance plans in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to supply 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 Oak Creek several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Ensure these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies have financing options. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help cover cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several loans allows you to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what others have said about certain long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Oak Creek 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: Moving companies that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you wary. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your full payment upfront. 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

A valuable piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to reserve your moving company well in advance of your move date. We advise planning your move at least 90 days ahead of time, or possibly earlier if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might prefer to have certain items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as notifying the Wisconsin DMV of your new address.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by putting together a bag with items such as extra clothes, toothbrushes, and medications.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll give you money back if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers need to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions 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. With this plan, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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