Since 1958, Merit Moving Systems has been successfully completing seamless long-distance relocations for our customer base moving out of Southern California. We prioritize top-tier customer service and listen closely to the needs and concerns of homeowners relocating cross-country with our help.
Many questions come up time and time again and relate to how the moving process works and how to find the perfect team of long-distance movers to work with. Below, you'll find our top long-distance moving tips, and questions you should ask any potential interstate moving company before hiring their services.
How Much Should I Budget for a Long-Distance Move?
The cost of a long-distance move will vary, depending on factors such as how much luggage you're bringing with and the distance to your updated address. Typically, long-distance moves cost anywhere between $4,000 and $10,000. If that sounds a bit higher than you had hoped, don't worry—there's always ways to cut back on expenses, such as:
- Downsize Your Belongings Beforehand
- Call At Least 3 Affordable Long-Distance Movers for Quotes
- Best Time to Move Cross-Country is in the Offseason (October through May)
Is Your Moving Company Fully Licensed?
All interstate moving companies must be fully licensed and registered with the FMCSA and should be able to present licensure upon request. All moving companies that cross state lines need to have a number with the DoT as well, which they should also know.
Is Your Moving Company Accredited?
Accreditation with well-known associations and networks can be crucial—this can be the difference between working with experienced professionals and a corner-cutting company. Some green flags to look for on a mover's credentials list include:
- BBB Accreditation
- Angi's List Recognition
- American Trucking Associations' Moving and Storage Conference
- Zero Complaints Against Mover on the FMCSA Website
Can You Handle the Full Scope of My Relocation?
Reliable long-distance movers know that nationwide relocations require more specialty services than local ones and should be able to help out with specific requests. You'll still want to double-check that your potential moving company can move that large grand piano to your new address or has a secure storage facility with either temporary or long-term storage options.
What Insurance Coverage Comes with Long-Distance Moves?
Interstate movers are required by law to provide liability protection at a rate of .60 cents per pound. Typically moving companies also offer valuation protection on top of this for customers to add on if desired, and will cover repairs, replacements, and cash settlements in the event of damaged goods during a household relocation.
Is My Moving Estimate Exact or Approximate?
Movers always provide you with a quote, but it could be one of two types:
- Binding Estimate: This type of estimate is exact, and the amount you pay after your move will match your quote down to the penny, unless you've added on extra services.
- Non-Binding Estimate: This kind of quote is an approximate guess, and the amount you end up paying could fluctuate above or below the amount written on your non-binding estimate.
Always ask your moving team for a written estimate for you to reference later on and ask them to specify what type of estimate it is.
When Should I Begin Planning My Cross-Country Move?
Because there are more tasks to complete during a long-distance relocation, your moving timeline should begin at least 8 weeks ahead of time. Plan on the first two weeks dedicated to finding the right moving company, and the next six to prep for moving day.
How To Pack for a Long-Distance Move?
Our main cross-country moving advice for efficient packing is to have a moving day bag filled with essential items that you don't want to accidentally misplace, including things like:
- Medication
- Important Documents
- Toiletry Items
- Change of Clothes
It's also a good idea to label boxes with items like toilet paper, paper towels, and linens, as you'll most likely be needing them right away at your new abode and won't want to forget which box these things are in!
What Sort of Delivery Window Should I Expect?
Long-distance moves take longer than local ones for obvious reasons related to mileage, so you should expect a moving timeline ranging anywhere from a few days to a couple weeks, depending on how far your movers will have to transport your belongings. Ask your movers about their estimated delivery window, and make sure you have each other's phone numbers to keep updated on any changes throughout the process.
Should I Be Present on Moving Day?
You will definitely want to be present at your old home on moving day when the professionals show up. In order for the day to go smoothly, be there the entire time to answer any questions or voice your own concerns that arise.
If possible, it's also a good idea to be at your new address when the moving trucks show up to help direct unpacking, furniture reassembly, and other to-do list items.
As ProMovers with the American Trucking Association's Moving and Storage Conference, Merit Moving Systems is part of a strong nationwide moving network that can help you relocate anywhere in the country, or even abroad. We offer full-service moving plans, and flexibility to customize our services to meet your needs and budget perfectly.
Get in touch with Merit Moving Systems today for a free estimate on our long-distance relocation services and hear more about what we can do on moving day!
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