When you’re planning a long-distance move, selecting the right long-distance moving company can make all the difference between a smooth relocation and a stressful ordeal. With so many moving services available, it’s important to know what to look for to ensure your belongings arrive safely, on time, and within budget. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps of choosing the best moving company for your long-haul move.
1. Understand Your Moving Needs
Before you even begin researching moving companies, identify the specific services you need:
- Full-service movers: They handle everything from packing, loading, transporting, and unpacking.
- Self-service movers: You pack and load; they transport your belongings or even most local moving companies will just load or unload your truck for you, but keep in mind movers who just load your truck will waive liability if you drive it.
- Specialty movers: For fragile, valuable, or oversized items like pianos, antiques, or artwork. Some but not all local or full-service moving companies will also do specialty moving, but it should not be assumed that they do.
- Storage services: Temporary or long-term storage solutions during your move. Depending on the length of time of your storage or the quantity of storage you have will change what storage options are ideal for you and your move.
Knowing exactly what you need will help you narrow down your list of reputable movers. Manly Moving is an all inclusive moving company and we can offer all the above services and we have options to meet any type of move.
2. Verify Credentials and Licensing
For interstate moves, any professional long-distance moving company must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and possess a valid USDOT number. Always verify:
- FMCSA licensing
- USDOT number
- Insurance coverage (liability and cargo)
- Memberships with reputable organizations like the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA) or the Better Business Bureau (BBB) are ways you can ensure that you are hiring a moving company that won’t take your money and run.
These credentials indicate that a professional moving company adheres to industry standards and regulations.
3. Read Reviews and Ask for Recommendations
Online reviews and personal recommendations are invaluable when evaluating long-distance movers. Look for feedback on:
- Timeliness
- Care of belongings
- Customer service
- Pricing transparency
- Claims process for damaged or lost items
- Company communication
Websites like Google Reviews, Yelp, and the BBB are excellent places to gather insights into the reputation of potential moving companies. Note that Google Reviews generally contains a full look at a company as a whole while Yelp and BBB are going to be nets that catch more of the bad reviews of a company and will seldom have good reviews and that holds true for most moving companies. Check out our reviews on Google and Yelp.
4. Get Multiple In-Home Estimates
Reputable moving companies should provide a binding estimate after conducting an in-home or virtual survey of your belongings. Be wary of companies that only offer quotes over the phone or email without seeing your inventory as many of these companies will sometimes double their estimates the day of the move. Compare multiple estimates to:
- Identify average pricing
- Detect unusually low-ball offers (a potential red flag for moving scams)
- Understand the range of moving services included
Ask for a binding not-to-exceed estimate to avoid unexpected costs. Manly Moving excels at offering accurate estimates with transparent fees so there are no surprises.
5. Understand the Pricing Structure
Long-distance moving costs are typically based on:
- Weight of your shipment or cubic feet of your shipment
- Distance of the move
- Additional services (packing, storage, special handling)
- Timing (peak season vs. off-season or express delivery)
Request a detailed moving quote that itemizes all charges. Ensure there are no hidden fees or ambiguous terms in the moving contract.
6. Evaluate Insurance and Liability Options
Even with the most careful professional movers, accidents can happen. Understand the insurance options:
- Released Value Protection: Basic coverage at no additional cost but minimal compensation. The released value is usually around $0.60/lbs, but some areas may offer a slightly higher or lower valuation.
- Full Value Protection: More comprehensive coverage that ensures repair, replacement, or reimbursement for lost or damaged items.
- Third-party insurance: Additional coverage for high-value items.
Ensure you fully understand what each option covers before signing the moving agreement.
7. Watch for Red Flags
Be cautious of moving companies that:
- Demand large upfront deposits (Greater than 30% down)
- Lack proper licensing and insurance
- Have vague or confusing contracts
- Use unmarked or rented trucks
- Offer significantly lower quotes than competitors
- Refuse to conduct an in-person estimate
These warning signs may indicate moving scams or unprofessional operators. At Manly Moving we are here to help you. If you want us even to look at another estimate for you and expose any red flags we are happy to help. Even if we don’t move you we still want to help. No one should be scammed.
Note: All long-distance or cross country moving companies are required to give you access to 2 documents which are “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” and “Ready to Move”. You can download and review these great documents by clicking here.
8. Review the Contract Thoroughly
Before committing to any long-distance mover, read the Bill of Lading carefully. This legally binding document should include:
- Estimated delivery dates
- Itemized list of services and charges
- Insurance coverage details
- Cancellation and claims policies
Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification on any confusing terms.
Note: Another tip is to avoid going through a moving broker. They sell off your move to moving companies and often don’t vet those companies to see if they are quality, honest companies. This is where a lot of scams and property hostage situations arise. So when calling to book with a company online ask if they are a moving broker because they will often try to conceal this fact.
9. Plan and Communicate Clearly
Once you’ve chosen your professional moving company, maintain clear communication:
- Confirm pickup and delivery dates
- Provide contact information
- Discuss any special requirements
- Label fragile or high-value items clearly
Good communication helps ensure a seamless moving experience. You don’t want to commit to a long-distance moving company that has poor communication. It will give you more than just a headache.
10. Why Choose Manly Moving for Your Long-Distance Move
At Manly Moving, we understand that a long-distance move is a major life event. Our fully licensed, insured, and experienced team offers:
- Full-service moving solutions tailored to your needs
- Transparent, competitive pricing with no hidden fees
- Professional packing, loading, and transportation
- Dedicated customer support from start to finish
- Secure storage solutions
- Specialized handling of fragile and high-value items
- The same moving company helps you from start to finish of your move.
With a proven track record of excellence, Manly Moving is your trusted partner for a stress-free, efficient, and safe relocation. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation moving quote and experience the difference of working with true moving professionals.
To get your FREE no obligation moving estimate call 855-997-1881
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