Who Are the Best Long Distance Moving Companies?
Over 40 million Americans move each year, with 14% of these moves happening across state lines. Moving all your possessions a far distance is not an easy task.
A long-distance moving company helps people move their belongings from one place to another. This can be across town, states, or even across the country.
Many different long-distance moving companies are available, so you need to do your research before choosing one.
We review the best long-distance moving companies and how to choose one that will work for you.
What to Look For in a Long-Distance Moving Company
When picking a long-distance moving company, you’ll want to make sure they are qualified. Make sure the company you choose has the following qualifications.
Reputable
Recommendations can go a long way when finding the best moving company to move your items. You can start with an internet search, but also make sure to use word-of-mouth recommendations.
Ask your friends and family for the names of the companies they used. Get details on what made the company great.
License and Insurance
A company with insurance means your items are protected from accidents along the way. When you move out of state, never use a company that doesn’t have insurance.
A moving company that travels between state lines needs to register with the U.S. Department of Transportation. They will always have a USDOT number unique to their company. You can find out if the company you hire has that by searching their website or using the FMCSA database.
Cost
Moving your items a long distance isn’t cheap, but it is worth it. Before you hire a company, look at their moving costs, so you know how much you’ll be paying.
Most of the time, movers will base their rates on the hours they need to work. Make sure to see what the rate includes. You may have to provide your own packing material or pay extra to move heavy items.
Experience
How long has the company you want to hire been in business? Hire movers with years of experience will know how to handle even the trickiest moves.
Best Long-Distance Moving Companies
Keeping your belongings safe on a cross-country trip is no easy task. A long-distance mover has the knowledge and skill to move even the most fragile items a long distance.
A long-distance moving company typically offers a range of services. They will pack up and load your belongings into a truck. They will also drive the truck to the new location and unpack everything.
Below are the best choices for your long-distance move.
International Van Lines
If you are looking for a full-service moving team, this is the company to go with. International Van Lines specializes in overseas moves.
You’ll have two managers assigned to your move when you hire this company. This will help keep things running smoothly.
International Van Lines isn’t the cheapest or most expensive moving option. You’ll pay a mid-level range but still have a personalized and expert service.
United Van Lines
This recognized company has been in business since the 1920s. United Van Lines specializes in moving companies long-distance. They also help families in the U.S. military move around the country.
You’ll love how easy the Unite Van Lines website is to use. The site goes over all the insurance options available so you can choose with ease.
Know that this company isn’t the cheapest option. Although you’ll be paying more, you’ll get a quality service out of it.
Colonial Van Lines
This well-connected moving company has agents across the entire United States. Colonial Van Lines have over 50 years of experience to help tackle any moving need.
This company’s blog offers lots of moving tips to help make your move a breeze. They also have an app that can give you a comprehensive estimate for your specific move cost. If you go with this company, the same app lets you track the move in real-time.
Keep in mind you’ll have to put down a 30% deposit before your move. This is higher than a typical deposit, so make sure to plan for it.
North American Moving Services
This company has over 500 experts ready to help you with your move. This is another company that has extensive knowledge of moving companies and offices.
You can track your move using a state-of-the-art satellite system. The drivers for this company are also highly trained using simulators.
U-Pack
If you want to save a little money, U-Pack is a great option. This company delivers a truck or moving container right to your house. You’ll do the packing and loading of your belongings.
Once you are ready, U-Pack takes the container and brings it to your new home. The cost of this service depends on how big of a container you need for your items. Because you do all the packing and unpacking yourself, it is one of the cheapest choices.
PODS
This company, which stands for portable on-demand storage, is the original portable storage option. Like with U-Pack, a POD is delivered to your home, and you’ll load it with your things.
You can choose to have your items moved to a storage facility or your new home. This is an excellent choice for both residential and commercial moves.
U-Haul
For the ultimate in DIY, consider this well-known moving company. You’ll be able to rent a truck, load it, and drive it yourself to your new location.
The trucks are easy to load, unload, and drive. You can also buy insurance to keep yourself and your things protected.
American Van Lines
If a flat-rate moving company appeals to you, check out American Van Lines. This company gives you a guaranteed final price, so you know exactly what you need to pay.
You’ll have peace of mind knowing that all movers in this company have a background check. They also all need to have certification to move heavy or fragile items.
The website gives an authentic review section. Reading through these will give you a good overview of what to expect with this service. You’ll need to put down a 50% deposit if you go with this company.
Mayflower
This long-standing moving company covers all sorts of different moves. They can move your house or company locally or a long-distance.
You won’t need to put a deposit down to use this company, which is a perk many enjoy. They also have a helpful online portal that can keep your move organized.
JK Moving
This moving company is customizable, so you can get exactly the services you need. You’ll also have a personal coordinator assigned to help your move go without a glitch.
The mobile app JK moving uses allows you to track your move and make any payments. JK Moving will reimburse you for any damaged or lost items during your move for the ultimate peace of mind.
How to Hire a Long-Distance Moving Company
Once you are ready to make your move, you’ll have to decide on the company to help you out.
Step One: Expectations
Before you start calling companies, know what services you’ll need help with. Are you looking for a company to pack everything and move, or are you willing to do some of it yourself?
These questions will help you narrow down a company that will fit your needs.
Step Two: Recommendations
Start asking your friends, family, and co-workers who they have used for a move. Check online to see if online reviews can give you any further information. Make sure that they are up to date on any insurance or licenses they need to move across state lines.
Step Three: Schedule
Once you’ve decided on a company, it’s time to schedule the move! You’ll talk to the company who will get more information about the move you are going to make. Usually, a representative will inspect what you need moved and give you an estimate.
After you have approved this estimate, you’ll schedule to date of the packing and the move itself. This is a great time to ask any questions about the move.
Step Four: The Move
Even though many companies will make the move for you, you’ll want to ensure you are present when the movers pack. Being around means you can answer any questions that they may have.
After your things are packed, you’ll make your way to your new home. The movers will arrive after you and unload your things in your new home.
Take the Stress Out of Moving With a Long-Distance Moving Company
Moving doesn’t have to be stressful when you use one of the best long-distance moving companies to do the job for you. You won’t have to lift a finger, and you’ll get your items to their new home efficiently and safely.
Are you looking to compare other services? If so, Comparison Genius has got you covered. Check out our moving category for more comparisons today!