5 best long-distance moving companies in Gillette, WY

Long-distance or interstate moves present their own challenges that set them apart from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

Put your mind at ease by hiring the right moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Gillette to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

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 note. Local movers only offer services within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to such jobs at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to charge by time. However, some companies use a mix of time and weight to set their prices, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

Although local movers may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies 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 Gillette

Finding the right long-distance mover in Gillette requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. Here are some tips for picking a legitimate, reliable long-distance moving company in Gillette.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can inquire about these or other options. We also suggest obtaining your own moving insurance to better protect your belongings. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, 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 movers in Gillette several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Ensure these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing options. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. We suggest looking into several loans to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what previous clients think about certain long-distance moving companies. You should also ask friends and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, 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 cautious of movers that offer “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding quotes. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment before the move. If a moving company has a long history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key piece of advice for long-distance moves is to book your movers far enough in advance. We recommend booking movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. When it comes to fragile, sentimental, or valuable belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

Writing a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Wyoming DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Pack a suitcase with necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, toiletries, and medicine.

Finally, make sure to get a good night’s sleep the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll reimburse you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover belongings 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 greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less protection. This insurance requires your movers to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy during your move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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