10 best long-distance moving companies in Burton, MI

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

The right moving company can help ease your issues. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've created this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Burton.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are a few key differences to be aware of. Local movers typically only operate within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies often set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies often charge based on the length of time needed for your move. However, some providers use a mix of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, especially when moving from one state to another. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Burton

When you're hiring a long-distance mover, the wide variety of options may be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Burton, we've gathered some advice below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is inside one state, ask about the options provided by your mover. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to completely protect your belongings. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months in advance to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. Ask for itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Burton. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies offer financing plans. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong strategy to help cover expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several choices allows you to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others say about certain long-distance moving companies. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be challenging and costlier to book a moving company. Burton also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that provide “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding quotes. Reliable movers generally shouldn't request your complete payment before the move. Steer clear of movers that have a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Scheduling your movers far enough ahead of time is critical when preparing for a long-distance move. It's best if you schedule your move at least 90 days beforehand. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might choose to keep certain fragile, valuable, or sentimental items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

To stay organized, write a detailed list of all the necessary tasks both before and after your move, such as notifying the Michigan DMV of your new address.

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

The night before your big move, don't forget to get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

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

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy after you move. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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