Finding Reliable Long-Distance Movers: What You Need to Know
Professional movers long distance services are essential for anyone planning a cross-country or interstate relocation. If you’re searching for the right moving company to handle your long-distance move, here’s what you need to know:
Quick Guide to Finding Professional Long-Distance Movers:
1. Verify credentials – Check for USDOT numbers and FMCSA registration
2. Compare quotes – Get at least 3 estimates (average cost: $3,500 for a 7,000 lb move over 1,000 miles)
3. Check reviews – Look for ratings between 4.3-4.75 stars
4. Book early – Schedule at least 2 months in advance, especially during peak season
5. Confirm services – Ensure they offer packing, loading, transportation, and insurance options
Moving across state lines brings unique challenges that local moves don’t present. When you’re relocating hundreds or thousands of miles away, the logistics become more complex, the regulations more stringent, and the need for reliable professionals more crucial.
About 3 million Americans make long-distance moves each year, trusting their precious belongings to companies that specialize in interstate relocations. Unlike local movers, long-distance moving companies must comply with federal regulations and have specific licensing requirements.
The difference between a smooth move and a stressful one often comes down to choosing the right professionals. A reputable long-distance moving company provides more than just transportation – they offer peace of mind through careful planning, proper equipment, and experienced personnel.
I’m Mina Georgalas, owner and president of Bernard Movers, with nearly 30 years of experience helping families and businesses with professional movers long distance services across 45 states. Our family-owned company has built its reputation on making cross-country relocations as stress-free as possible.
Professional movers long distance word list:
– moving out of state budget
– moving out of state checklist
– out of state moving
What Exactly Qualifies as a Long-Distance Move?
Ever wondered where the line between a “local move” and a “long-distance move” actually falls? The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think!
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), a move typically qualifies as long-distance when it exceeds 400 miles. However, if you’ve been researching moving companies, you’ve probably noticed that definitions vary – some companies consider anything over 50 miles to be “long-distance,” while others stick firmly to that 400-mile threshold.
For clarity, long-distance moves generally fall into two main categories:
Interstate moves cross state lines and fall under federal regulation. Even if you’re just moving across a neighboring state border (think moving from New York to New Jersey), you’re making an interstate move that requires federally licensed movers.
Intrastate moves happen entirely within one state but cover significant distances – usually over 50-100 miles. These moves follow state-specific regulations rather than federal ones.
The distinction matters because interstate moves require movers to have specific federal licensing and insurance. All legitimate professional movers long distance companies must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA for interstate relocations.
“From a regulatory standpoint, any move crossing state lines is considered interstate and falls under federal jurisdiction,” explains the FMCSA. This provides you with additional consumer protections, as interstate movers must comply with stricter regulations regarding licensing, insurance, and business practices.
With approximately 3 million Americans making long-distance moves each year, understanding these distinctions helps ensure you’re working with properly qualified professionals. For more information about interstate regulations, you can explore resources from the American Moving & Storage Association.
How Long Until My Stuff Arrives?
One of the biggest surprises for first-time long-distance movers is the delivery timeline. Unlike local moves where your belongings typically arrive the same day, professional movers long distance services operate with extended delivery windows.
For most long-distance relocations, expect a delivery window of 10-14 days. This longer timeframe accounts for several factors:
The actual distance traveled (sometimes thousands of miles), federal regulations limiting driver hours for safety, potential weather delays, road conditions, and seasonal moving volume all affect your delivery schedule.
Your belongings will typically arrive via one of two methods:
Expedited Delivery means your items are the only ones on the truck, and the same crew handles both loading and unloading. This premium service guarantees a specific delivery date but comes with a higher price tag.
Consolidated Delivery is more economical because your belongings share truck space with other customers’ items. The trade-off is a wider delivery window, typically 2-14 days depending on distance and logistics.
“The movers gave us a 10-day delivery window, but our things actually arrived in 8 days,” shared Barry W., who moved from Grandville, MI to Hernando, FL. “They kept us updated throughout the journey, which helped ease our minds.”
If you have a strict timeline, be sure to discuss guaranteed delivery options with your mover. At Bernard Movers, we understand the importance of predictability, which is why we offer exact guaranteed arrival dates for expedited moves – a service many carriers don’t provide.
Need more information about what to expect during your long-distance move? Check out our guide to out-of-state moving options for additional insights.
Professional Movers Long Distance: Core Services & Add-Ons
When you’re planning a cross-country move, understanding what professional movers long distance companies actually offer can save you time, money, and a whole lot of headaches. Let’s break down what services you can expect and what extras might be worth splurging on.
Core Services
Every reputable long-distance moving company should provide certain fundamental services as part of their standard package. Think of these as the non-negotiables:
Transportation is the heart of what movers do—safely hauling your belongings across hundreds or thousands of miles in trucks specifically designed for long journeys. These aren’t your average rental trucks; they’re built to protect your items through changing terrains and weather conditions.
The loading and unloading process might seem straightforward, but there’s an art to it. Professional teams know exactly how to stack and secure items to prevent shifting during transit. They’ll handle the heavy lifting at both ends of your journey, saving your back and your friendships (we’ve all had that friend who “helped” move only to drop something valuable).
Basic liability coverage comes standard with most moves. While it’s minimal (typically $0.60 per pound per item), it provides a foundation of protection. That means if your 50-pound dresser gets damaged, you’d receive about $30 in compensation—not ideal for valuable items, but better than nothing.
Premium Add-On Services
Now for the extras that can transform your moving experience from bearable to actually pleasant:
Full-service packing is the ultimate luxury for many movers. Imagine waking up on moving day to find professionals have already wrapped, boxed, and labeled everything you own using proper materials. They’ll bring all the supplies, carefully wrap fragile items, create custom crates for valuable pieces, and maintain a detailed inventory. As Antonio from Cypress, TX finded when moving to Gilbert, AZ: “The full-service packing option was worth every penny. The crew carefully wrapped all our china and glassware with specialized materials, and nothing broke during the cross-country journey.”
If full packing feels excessive, partial packing lets you choose specific rooms or categories for professional handling. Many people opt to pack most items themselves but leave fragile kitchenware, artwork, or electronics to the pros.
Storage solutions become crucial when your moving timeline gets complicated. Maybe your new home isn’t ready, or you’re downsizing temporarily. Climate-controlled facilities keep your belongings safe for short or extended periods without you needing to rent a separate storage unit.
Vehicle shipping removes the stress of driving your car, motorcycle, or boat across the country. This service is particularly valuable for families with multiple vehicles or anyone who dreads the thought of a cross-country road trip.
Other valuable add-ons include furniture disassembly and reassembly, specialty item handling for things like pianos and pool tables, debris removal after unpacking, and full value protection insurance that covers the actual value of your items rather than just their weight.
For a deeper dive into these options, check out our guide to out-of-state moving options.
Why Choose Professional Movers Long Distance Over DIY?
The DIY approach might seem tempting at first glance—just rent a truck and go, right? But there’s much more to consider:
| Aspect | DIY Moving | Professional Movers |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Strain | High risk of injury from lifting heavy items | Trained crews handle all heavy lifting |
| Time Commitment | Weeks of planning, packing, loading, driving | Focus on organizing your new home while pros handle the move |
| Equipment | Rental trucks lack proper moving equipment | Access to dollies, ramps, hoisting equipment, and specialized tools |
| Efficiency | Amateur packing often wastes space and time | Optimized loading for maximum space efficiency |
| Insurance | Limited rental truck insurance | Comprehensive coverage options |
| Stress Level | High stress managing all aspects | Peace of mind with experienced professionals |
| Hidden Costs | Truck rental, fuel, hotels, meals, supplies | All-inclusive pricing with no surprise expenses |
| Safety | No formal training in proper moving techniques | Experienced movers using proper safety protocols |
As one customer wisely noted: “DIY moves may save money on fees but often cost more time and effort. After calculating the truck rental, gas, hotels, and time off work, hiring professionals actually made more financial sense for our cross-country move.”
Specialty Handling & Vehicle Transport with Professional Movers Long Distance
Some belongings simply need extra TLC during a move. Professional movers long distance companies understand this and offer specialized solutions for your most precious items.
Piano transportation isn’t just about strength—it’s about protecting an instrument worth thousands of dollars. Professional movers use custom crating, maintain climate control when possible, and employ specialized handling techniques that prevent damage to both the exterior and the delicate internal mechanisms.
Antiques and heirlooms often carry both monetary and emotional value that exceeds anything else you own. For these treasures, movers create custom crates with reinforced corners and generous cushioning materials to prevent even minor damage during transit.
Artwork and sculptures receive museum-quality treatment, with acid-free materials and custom-built crates designed specifically for each piece’s dimensions and fragility level.
When it comes to vehicle transportation, you have options beyond driving it yourself or asking a friend. Professional auto transport services offer both open trailers (more affordable) and enclosed options (better protection), door-to-door delivery instead of central depots, comprehensive insurance coverage, and real-time tracking so you always know where your vehicle is.
Catherine R., who relocated from Ocala, FL to Lexington, NC, shared her experience: “I was concerned about moving my grandmother’s antique china cabinet, but the movers built a custom crate right in my living room. It arrived at our new home without a scratch.”
At Bernard Movers, we understand that these specialty items often represent your most valuable possessions—both financially and sentimentally. Our teams receive specific training in the proper techniques for securing and transporting these precious belongings safely, whether you’re moving across the state or across the country.
Dollars & Distance: Understanding Long-Distance Moving Costs
Let’s talk money – because when it comes to professional movers long distance, understanding costs helps you avoid that pit-in-your-stomach feeling when the final bill arrives.
If you’re budgeting for your upcoming move, plan for around $3,500 on average. This typical price point covers a standard 3-bedroom home shipment (about 7,000 pounds) traveling 1,000 miles. Of course, your actual costs might look different – a cozy studio apartment might run you closer to $1,750, while that sprawling family home moving coast-to-coast could exceed $10,000.
What drives these prices? Think of your move like a math equation with several variables. Distance is the obvious one – those miles add up quickly at around $0.50 per pound for moves over 100 miles. Then there’s the weight of your shipment – which directly correlates to your home size. A 5-bedroom house naturally contains more stuff than a 1-bedroom apartment.
Your chosen service level also significantly impacts the bottom line. Basic transportation costs less than the white-glove treatment where the movers handle everything from wrapping your grandmother’s china to assembling your bed frame at the destination.
“We opted for full-service packing when moving from Chicago to Denver,” shares Maria L., a recent Bernard Movers customer. “It cost more upfront but saved us weeks of stress and prevented damage to our antiques. Worth every penny.”
Timing matters too. Moving during the busy summer months (May through September) typically costs 20-30% more than moving during the off-season. If your schedule is flexible, consider a fall or winter move to save substantially.
Then there are those sneaky extras that can catch you off guard. Access fees apply when movers face challenges like narrow streets or multiple flights of stairs. Long carry fees kick in when the truck can’t park close to your door. If a full-sized moving truck can’t reach your location, you might need a shuttle service to transfer your belongings to a smaller vehicle. And don’t forget potential storage fees if your new home isn’t ready on arrival day.
For more detailed budgeting guidance, our moving out of state budget guide breaks down every potential expense.
How Estimates & Binding Quotes Work
When shopping for professional movers long distance, you’ll encounter three types of estimates, and the differences matter greatly:
A non-binding estimate is just a ballpark figure based on the estimated weight of your belongings. Your final cost will be determined after weighing your items on moving day – which means the price could increase significantly.
A binding estimate offers certainty – you’ll pay exactly the quoted amount regardless of the actual weight (assuming you don’t add items to your inventory).
The gold standard is a binding not-to-exceed estimate (sometimes called a guaranteed price). You’ll never pay more than the estimate, but you could pay less if your shipment weighs less than anticipated.
Most reputable movers offer two ways to assess your belongings:
With a virtual survey, you’ll walk through your home using video technology, showing a moving consultant what needs to be moved. It’s convenient and increasingly accurate.
An in-home survey involves a consultant physically visiting your home to inventory your belongings and note any special requirements or challenges.
Be wary of estimates that seem too good to be true – they usually are. Watch for quotes significantly lower than competitors, estimates provided without thorough inventory, refusals to provide binding estimates, demands for large deposits (over 20%), or vague language about potential extra fees.
“At Bernard Movers, we believe moving costs should be crystal clear,” says Mina Georgalas, owner and president. “That’s why we provide detailed, binding estimates with no hidden surprises. We want you focusing on your new beginning, not worrying about your moving bill.”
Insurance & Protection Plans
When your life’s possessions travel hundreds or thousands of miles, proper protection becomes essential. Professional movers long distance companies offer several coverage options:
Released Value Protection comes standard with your move but offers minimal coverage – typically just $0.60 per pound per item. This means your 50-pound television valued at $1,000 would only be covered for $30 if damaged. Not exactly reassuring.
Full Value Protection offers comprehensive coverage where the mover becomes liable for the replacement value of lost or damaged items. While this premium option costs more, it provides significantly better protection for your valuable belongings.
Some movers also offer Third-Party Insurance through companies specializing in moving protection, which can provide additional peace of mind.
Before selecting coverage, ask these critical questions: What deductible applies? How are claims filed and processed? Are any items excluded from coverage? How is the value of damaged items determined? And what’s the timeframe for filing claims?
Unlike many movers who start with the bare minimum coverage, at Bernard Movers, we include Full Value Protection in every initial moving quote. We believe your cherished belongings deserve proper protection throughout their journey to your new home.
How to Vet & Book the Right Professional Movers Long Distance
Finding a trustworthy professional movers long distance company doesn’t have to feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. With some careful research and a methodical approach, you can find a reliable partner for your journey to a new home.
Licensing Verification
Before entrusting your treasured belongings to any moving company, verify their credentials. Legitimate interstate movers must have proper documentation that proves they’re authorized to transport your items across state lines.
Look for a USDOT number issued by the Department of Transportation and an MC (Motor Carrier) number from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. These aren’t just random numbers – they’re your assurance that the company meets federal safety standards and has proper operating authority.
“When a mover has the right credentials, it tells you they’re playing by the rules,” says Mina Georgalas of Bernard Movers. “It’s your first line of defense against potential problems.”
You can easily verify these credentials through the FMCSA’s company snapshot search tool. Just enter the company’s name or USDOT number, and you’ll see their safety record and operating status.
Reputation Research
A company’s reputation speaks volumes about their service quality. When researching professional movers long distance companies, look for those with consistent ratings between 4.3 and 4.75 stars across multiple review platforms.
Don’t just skim the ratings – take time to read both positive and negative reviews. Look for patterns in customer feedback rather than focusing on isolated incidents. Even the best companies occasionally have an off day, but consistent complaints about the same issues are red flags.
The Better Business Bureau (BBB) is another valuable resource. Companies with A+ ratings typically have few complaints and demonstrate a commitment to resolving customer issues promptly.
Industry associations like the American Moving & Storage Association indicate a company’s commitment to professional standards. These memberships aren’t required, but they show a mover’s dedication to quality service.
Avoiding Rogue Movers
Unfortunately, the moving industry has its share of bad actors. Protect yourself by watching for these telltale signs of fraudulent operators:
No physical address or local presence is a major warning sign. Legitimate moving companies have real offices and warehouses – not just a website and phone number.
Be wary of generic company names or website content that lacks specific details about their services and team. Reputable movers are proud to share their company history and specific offerings.
If a company demands large cash deposits before your move, walk away. Most legitimate movers require minimal deposits and accept credit cards, which offer you additional protection.
Always verify the USDOT number of any interstate mover you’re considering. Without proper licensing, they’re operating illegally and putting your belongings at risk.
“Only a few companies can be truly trusted for interstate moves across the United States,” notes industry experts. “Verify credentials before trusting anyone with your belongings.”
Booking Timeline
Timing matters when booking professional movers long distance. For the best service and rates, start your search early:
8-12 weeks before moving: Begin researching potential companies. This gives you plenty of time to verify credentials and read reviews.
6-8 weeks before: Schedule in-home or virtual estimates with your top choices. A thorough inventory is essential for an accurate quote.
4-6 weeks before: Book your chosen mover after comparing estimates and services. The best companies fill their schedules quickly.
2-4 weeks before: Confirm all details and services. Make sure your mover knows about any special items or access issues at either location.
During peak moving season (May-September), you might want to start this process even earlier. Summer weekends are particularly busy, so consider a weekday move if your schedule allows.
Step-by-Step Hiring Process
Finding the right mover is like dating – you need to get to know them before making a commitment. Start by compiling a list of 5-7 potential companies with proper credentials. Cast a wide net initially, then narrow down your options.
Next, request detailed estimates from at least three companies. Be suspicious if one quote is significantly lower than others – this often indicates hidden fees or inexperience.
As you compare quotes, verify each company’s licensing, insurance, and reviews. A slightly higher price from a well-established mover with excellent reviews is usually worth the investment.
Consider which services you need beyond basic transportation. Do you want full packing services? Special handling for antiques or artwork? Storage options? Make sure your chosen mover offers everything you require.
Before signing anything, carefully review the “Order for Service” and “Bill of Lading” documents. These legally binding contracts outline services, costs, pickup and delivery dates, and liability terms. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about anything you don’t understand.
Once you’ve selected your mover, get your coordinator’s direct contact information. This person will be your point of contact throughout the moving process, so establish communication early.
Red-Flag Warning Signs & Scam Prevention
Moving scams can turn your exciting relocation into a nightmare. Protect yourself by recognizing these warning signs:
Financial red flags include demands for large upfront deposits (over 20% of the total cost), cash-only payment policies, and reluctance to provide binding estimates. If a quote seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Operational concerns might include the lack of a local office, use of unmarked rental trucks instead of company vehicles, or staff without uniforms or proper equipment. Professional movers invest in their appearance and tools.
Contract issues are particularly troubling. Never sign blank or incomplete documents, and insist that all promises be put in writing. Vague terms regarding additional charges often lead to surprise fees on moving day.
The most serious scam involves “hostage loads,” where dishonest movers hold belongings until customers pay inflated fees. To protect yourself, document your belongings with photos before the move, never sign incomplete paperwork, and pay with a credit card when possible for additional protection.
“We’ve heard heartbreaking stories from customers who previously fell victim to moving scams,” shares Mina at Bernard Movers. “That’s why we’re committed to complete transparency in our estimates and contracts. Moving is stressful enough without worrying about the trustworthiness of your movers.”
At Bernard Movers, we understand that entrusting your possessions to strangers takes a leap of faith. That’s why we make it easy to verify our credentials, read authentic reviews, and get clear, binding estimates before you commit. Our goal is to make your long-distance move as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Packing, Storage & Moving-Day Prep
Let’s face it – the thought of packing up your entire life can be overwhelming. But with some smart planning and the help of professional movers long distance, you can transform this mountain into manageable molehills. Here’s how to prepare for your big move without losing your mind (or your favorite coffee mug).
Decluttering Before Packing
Long-distance moves are typically priced by weight, so this is the perfect opportunity to lighten your load – and potentially your moving bill. Think of it as a fresh start!
“I always tell clients that every item they decide not to move saves them money twice – once on moving costs and again on the mental energy of unpacking and finding a place for it,” says Mina at Bernard Movers.
Consider selling furniture that won’t fit your new space, hosting a garage sale for those kitchen gadgets you never use, or donating gently-used items to local charities. Ask yourself: “Would I rather pay to move this, or buy a replacement later if I really need it?” For paperwork and photos, consider digitizing what you can to save space and weight.
Essential Moving Preparations
The First-Night Box is your survival kit when you arrive at your new home exhausted and surrounded by boxes. Pack one for each family member with immediate essentials: toiletries, medications, a change of clothes, phone chargers, and basic bedding. For the household, include paper plates, plastic utensils, a few basic tools, and cleaning supplies. You’ll thank yourself later!
Be aware that professional movers long distance cannot legally transport certain items. These “non-allowables” include:
– Flammable materials (paint, aerosols, propane)
– Perishable foods
– Plants (most states have agricultural restrictions)
– Hazardous materials and chemicals
– Certain electronics with lithium batteries
Want to save on moving costs? Consider scheduling your move for a Tuesday or Wednesday in the middle of the month when demand is lower. If your timeline is flexible, ask about consolidated moves where your items share truck space with other shipments – it’s typically less expensive but takes a bit longer.
“Many customers don’t realize they can save 15-25% by choosing weekday moves instead of weekend slots,” notes our team at Bernard Movers. “That savings can cover a nice dinner in your new city!”
Storage Solutions
Life doesn’t always line up perfectly, and sometimes you need a place to keep your belongings between homes. Quality professional movers long distance offer flexible storage options:
When your closing dates don’t align perfectly, short-term storage bridges the gap without stress. For major renovations or downsizing situations, long-term storage gives you breathing room to make decisions without rushing.
Look for climate-controlled facilities to protect wooden furniture, electronics, and artwork from temperature and humidity damage. Military-grade security features like 24/7 monitoring, controlled access, and fire protection systems ensure your treasures stay safe while in storage.
At Bernard Movers, we understand these transitions can be complicated, which is why we offer 30 days of complimentary storage in our secure, climate-controlled facilities. It’s one less thing to worry about during your move.
For a comprehensive preparation guide with printable checklists, visit our detailed moving out of state checklist.
Prep Timeline: 8 Weeks to Go
8 Weeks Before is when your planning begins in earnest. Research and book your moving company (the good ones fill up fast!), create a realistic moving budget that accounts for all expenses, and begin the satisfying process of decluttering your home. Don’t forget to request time off work – moving days are definitely not conducive to Zoom meetings!
By 6 Weeks Before, you should order those packing supplies (you’ll need more boxes than you think) and begin packing seasonal or rarely-used items. Create a detailed inventory of valuable items with photos for insurance purposes. This is also a good time to research schools, doctors, and services in your new location.
When you’re 4 Weeks Before moving day, file your change of address forms with USPS and notify important parties like banks, insurance companies, and subscription services. Start transferring or canceling utilities and gather important documents like medical records and school transcripts that you’ll carry with you personally.
At the 2 Week mark, confirm all details with your moving company and arrange pet transportation if needed. As rooms are emptied, deep clean areas and use up perishable food. This is when serious packing happens – aim to have most non-essential items boxed up.
During the Final Week, pack your first-night boxes, disassemble furniture that’s coming with you, and confirm your payment method for the movers. Creating a basic floor plan for your new home helps you direct movers on delivery day. Don’t forget to back up computers and electronic devices before they’re packed!
Day-Of Expectations & Delivery Day
Moving Day at Origin brings a flurry of activity. Your professional movers long distance team will arrive within the scheduled window, ready to transform chaos into order. First, they’ll conduct a walkthrough to note any pre-existing damage and discuss special instructions for fragile or valuable items.
The crew will create a detailed inventory list, with each item assigned a numbered sticker or tag for tracking. Your furniture will be carefully wrapped in protective materials before being strategically loaded onto the truck. Before departure, you’ll sign paperwork confirming the inventory – this is your receipt for everything being transported.
During Transit, your move coordinator becomes your lifeline, providing updates on your shipment’s progress. For long-distance moves, expect 10-14 days of transit time, though this varies based on distance and service level. Many companies now offer online tracking systems so you can monitor your belongings’ journey across the country.
When Delivery Day arrives, the moving crew will call ahead to confirm their arrival time. Prepare your new home by marking rooms with signs to help direct traffic. As items are brought in, check them against the inventory list and inspect for any damage before signing the delivery paperwork.
“The color-coded labeling system we use at Bernard Movers helps ensure every item reaches its proper destination,” explains our team. “It’s incredibly satisfying to watch a home come together room by room during delivery day.”
If you’ve purchased unpacking services, your movers will place items in appropriate rooms and remove packing materials, giving you a head start on settling in. Otherwise, they’ll place boxes according to your directions and assemble any furniture they disassembled at origin.
Preparation is the key to a smooth move. With the right planning and a reliable team of professional movers long distance, your relocation can be the beginning of an exciting new chapter rather than a stressful ordeal.
Frequently Asked Questions about Long-Distance Moves
What factors affect cost the most?
When budgeting for professional movers long distance, understanding what drives the cost helps you plan more effectively.
Distance is the primary factor that determines your moving price. It’s simple math – the more miles your belongings travel, the higher the cost. A move from New York to Florida will naturally cost more than relocating from Georgia to South Carolina.
The weight of your shipment is the second biggest cost driver. Since long-distance movers price by weight rather than hours, the stuff you choose to take matters. A typical 1-bedroom apartment weighing around 3,500 pounds might cost between $1,750-$2,800 for a long-distance move, while that 4-bedroom family home at 12,000+ pounds could easily exceed $7,500.
The level of service you choose dramatically impacts your final bill. Basic transportation-only services (where you do all the packing and unpacking) will cost significantly less than full-service options where the movers handle everything from wrapping your grandmother’s china to reassembling your bed frame at the destination.
Timing your move can save you money too. Many families don’t realize that moving during peak season (May through September) or at month-end can increase costs by 20-30% compared to off-peak times. If your schedule is flexible, consider a mid-month, mid-week move during fall or winter.
Access challenges at either home can add unexpected costs. As one customer finded: “I didn’t realize my narrow street would require a shuttle service to transfer my belongings from the moving truck to my home – that added $800 to my final bill.”
How far ahead should I book a mover?
Planning ahead is your best friend when it comes to securing reliable professional movers long distance services.
During peak moving season (May-September), when roughly 70% of all moves occur, you should book your movers 8-12 weeks in advance. Many of our customers are surprised to learn how quickly the best time slots fill up, especially for Friday and weekend moves.
For off-peak season moves (October-April), you can usually get away with booking 6-8 weeks ahead, though earlier is always better for securing your preferred dates and potentially better rates.
If you’re planning to move at the very beginning or end of a month, add an extra two weeks to these timeframes. These popular moving days book up faster than mid-month dates.
Holiday period moves require even more advance planning – think 3-4 months ahead if you’re moving around Thanksgiving, Christmas, or other major holidays.
“I learned the hard way that waiting until the last minute leaves you with fewer options and potentially higher prices,” shares Marissa T., who moved from Tampa to Denver. “The company I wanted was booked solid when I called just three weeks before my move.”
At Bernard Movers, while we sometimes can accommodate last-minute bookings, we strongly recommend early scheduling for the best rates and your preferred dates.
Are my belongings insured automatically?
Many people assume their belongings are fully covered during a move, but the standard protection included with professional movers long distance services is quite limited.
By federal law, movers must include Released Value Protection with your move at no additional charge. However, this basic coverage only protects your items at a rate of $0.60 per pound per article. This means your 50-pound television worth $1,000 would only be covered for $30 if damaged – hardly enough to replace it.
For meaningful protection, consider upgrading to Full Value Protection. This premium option covers the replacement value of lost or damaged items, not just their weight. While it typically costs about 1-2% of your shipment’s value, the peace of mind is well worth it for most families. This coverage may include a deductible, so be sure to ask about the details.
Some customers opt for Third-Party Moving Insurance for additional security. These policies often cover items that movers exclude and may offer lower deductibles than mover-provided options.
“After comparing the cost of Full Value Protection to the value of our belongings, the decision was a no-brainer,” explains Michael R., who relocated from Chicago to Phoenix. “Paying a few hundred dollars extra to protect thousands in furniture and electronics just made sense.”
Before your move day arrives, document valuable items with photographs and detailed descriptions. This documentation proves invaluable if you need to file a claim. Also, remember to inspect items carefully upon delivery and report any damage promptly – most companies require damage reports within a specific timeframe.
At Bernard Movers, we believe your treasured possessions deserve proper protection. That’s why we always include Full Value Protection in our initial quotes, giving you complete peace of mind throughout your relocation journey.
Conclusion
Selecting the right professional movers long distance company truly can make or break your relocation experience. With approximately 3 million Americans starting on long-distance moves annually, the difference between unpacking memories with a smile or with stress often comes down to one crucial decision: who you trust with your belongings.
At Bernard Movers, we’ve witnessed the unique challenges that come with cross-country and interstate relocations. Our dedicated team approaches each move not just as a logistical operation, but as a significant life transition that deserves care, attention, and expertise.
Here’s some exciting news for those heading south: we’re currently offering a special 20% additional discount on moves to Georgia and Florida for deliveries scheduled by March 15, 2025. This limited-time offer makes our already competitive rates even more affordable for families and individuals relocating to these popular sunshine states.
As you plan your move, remember these essential tips we’ve learned from nearly three decades in the business: book early (at least 8 weeks in advance), verify credentials thoroughly (especially USDOT numbers), get binding estimates in writing, invest in full-value protection for your treasured possessions, prepare that crucial first-night box with essentials, and select service options that align with both your needs and budget.
Our teams throughout Illinois—including our locations in Chicago and Melrose Park—stand ready to transform what could be an overwhelming experience into a smooth, even enjoyable transition to your new home. We bring the same level of care and attention to detail whether you’re moving to a neighboring state or clear across the country.
Ready to experience the Bernard Movers difference? For more information about our comprehensive out-of-state moving services, reach out today. Let our family help your family make this next chapter a positive one—with less stress, more reliability, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing your belongings are in capable hands.
After all, at Bernard Movers, we don’t just move boxes—we help move lives, memories, and dreams from one home to the next.