10 best long-distance moving companies in Racine, WI

Long-distance or interstate moves present unique challenges that distinguish them from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Selecting the right movers can help lessen your worries. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings arrive at your new home safely, we've compiled this guide to the best long-distance movers in Racine.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only assist with local moves. Local movers generally offer moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

Local movers are also more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. However, some movers use a mix of time and weight to calculate their prices, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

Local Racine moving companies are often more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and experience, especially when moving between states. Long-distance movers can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Racine

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in Racine requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and fits your budget. To help you navigate the process of finding a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Racine, we've compiled some advice below.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar options for long-distance moves inside one state. In addition to the insurance choices carried by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your possessions. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers provide a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have plenty of time to plan your move. Reach out to multiple long-distance moving providers in Racine and get detailed cost breakdowns. As you compare quotes, ensure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll use.
• 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 take out a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple options to make sure you get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about specific long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and relatives.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be difficult and more expensive to hire a mover. Racine 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: Be cautious of movers that give you “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding quotes. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your full payment upfront. Steer clear of movers that have a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Finding your movers well before your move date is essential when planning a long-distance move. We suggest scheduling movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we recommend starting a month in advance. You might prefer to keep certain possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, prepare a detailed list of everything that needs to be done both 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 packing a suitcase with items such as medicine, toothbrushes, and extra clothes.

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll cover the cost if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. While Full Value Protection is more expensive, it gives you more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less coverage. If you choose this insurance, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. This typically 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