10 best long-distance moving companies in Oshtemo, MI

There are a variety of importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves 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.

Choosing the right moving professionals can help lessen your challenges. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive at your new home without incident, we've compiled this list of the best long-distance movers in Oshtemo.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only offer local moves. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only offer services within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to charge by time. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when calculating their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Local Oshtemo moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance movers 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 Oshtemo

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options can be overwhelming, making it challenging to hire the right one for your move. To help you navigate the process of choosing a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Oshtemo, we've compiled some advice below.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, looking into these or similar options is a good idea. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Oshtemo several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Ensure these estimates include costs 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, many moving companies offer financing plans. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help with cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple loans to make sure you select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what previous customers have said about certain long-distance moving companies. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Oshtemo also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that provide “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding quotes. Additionally, legitimate movers shouldn’t demand the full payment before the move. Steer clear of movers that have an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Booking your moving company well before your move date is extremely important when preparing for a long-distance move. We recommend booking your move at least three months in advance, or even earlier if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we advise starting a month in advance. You probably have fragile, valuable, or sentimental items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

It's also important to make a checklist of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Michigan DMV.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days, such as toothbrushes, extra clothes, and medications.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers 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 includes more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it has less coverage. If you choose this plan, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings 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 during your move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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

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