10 best long-distance moving companies in West Bend, WI

Long-distance or interstate moves include their own challenges that distinguish them 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.

Selecting the right movers can help lessen your challenges. We've put together this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in West Bend so you, your loved ones, and your possessions arrive to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are some key differences to be aware of. Local movers only work within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to these requests at all.

Local movers are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance movers more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. Certain moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when establishing their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when it comes to moving from one state to another. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress 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 West Bend

When you're hiring a long-distance mover, the wide range of options may feel overwhelming. See the list below for some tips on finding a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in West Bend.

• 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 customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to better protect your belongings. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to supply a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in West Bend several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing plans to help you afford your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. We advise looking into several choices to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what previous clients have said about specific long-distance movers. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to get and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that give you “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding estimates. Additionally, trustworthy movers won't demand the full payment before the move. Avoid movers with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to find your moving company well before of your move date. To ensure a stress-free move, book your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and possibly even more if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You might choose to keep certain fragile, valuable, or sentimental possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Put together a list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move. The list should include items such as updating your address with the Wisconsin DMV.

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

The night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll pay you back if any of your items are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but gives you better coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it gives you less protection. With this insurance, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged possessions.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. While this usually 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