When you’re gearing up for a move, understanding the difference between local and long-distance moves is crucial. I’m here to help you with that.
A long-distance move, in the eyes of most moving companies, isn’t just about crossing state lines; it usually involves a journey of over 50 to 100 miles. The industry often tags anything beyond that range as long-distance, but it’s not set in stone; some movers might have different thresholds.
As you might expect, the farther the move, the more complexities and costs you’ll encounter. We’re not just talking about the mileage here. There’s also the weight of your belongings, the time of year, and additional services like packing and storage that can affect your final quote. Understanding these factors is going to include a bit of research on your part, but I’m here to make that easier.
Most long-distance moving companies offer a suite of services designed to take the burden off your shoulders. This might range from the traditional pick-up and delivery to full-service packages that manage packing, unpacking, and setup at your new home. Choose something that resonates with you and fits your needs.
Now, to do this right, you need to be savvy about whom you’re hiring. It’s vital to check mover qualifications, their record with regulatory bodies like the FMCSA, and if in doubt, just give them a quick call.
- Are they personable?
- Do they take time to understand your needs, your budget, your priorities?
- Do they give you different options: insurance, packing services, storage, fragile and heavy items, written estimates?
- Do they tell you what factors will increase and decrease the cost of your move?
And just don’t focus too much on finding the cheapest quote — in moving, you often get what you pay for.
With proper planning and a clear understanding of what constitutes a long-distance move, you can tailor your approach to find the right movers who’ll transport your life’s possessions with care. Starting with a solid grasp of long-distance moving will smooth out the rest of your moving journey.