Difference Between Local and Long Distance Moving: 7 Key Factors Explained

• Understanding the difference between local and long distance moving is crucial for planning your next relocation effectively. Local moves generally involve transporting your belongings within the same city or surrounding region, often completed within a day or two. In contrast, long distance moves cover much greater distances, frequently crossing state lines or even spanning the entire country.

Because of these differences, factors such as moving costs, the range of services offered, insurance requirements, and legal regulations can vary significantly between the two types of moves. Being aware of these distinctions allows you to better prepare, budget, and select the appropriate moving company tailored to your specific needs.

This comprehensive guide delves into the key differences between local and long distance moving, providing insights into cost structures, service options, and logistical considerations. Whether you plan to hire professional relocation companies or manage a DIY move, understanding these nuances will help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure a smoother transition.

From choosing the right moving services and estimating expenses to navigating insurance coverage and timing, this information empowers you to make informed decisions for a successful move, no matter the distance involved.

Local vs. Interstate Relocation: What Sets Them Apart?

Highlighted below are the differences between a local move and a long-distance move:

The Preparation

As we mentioned earlier, preparing for a local move is much easier than a long-distance move. You'll need to do many things to prepare for a long-distance move. Since you can't just go to the place and find things out on your own, you'll need more time and be more thorough. Finding a new property, for example, will be more difficult because you won't be able to visit it in person; instead, you'll need to hire a real estate agent and look at your potential new home online. Other steps are also more complicated, such as bidding farewell to friends, family, and coworkers and mentally preparing yourself for a fresh start.

Long-Distance Move Takes Time

If you're relocating locally, you can pack your possessions and execute your move in less than 48 hours. On the other hand, long-distance relocation requires starting the planning approximately a week before the moving day.

Hiring shifters to organize your stuff is vital, whether you're shifting down the block or across the state. Remember to get rid of unimportant items as quickly as possible. The relocation companies will assist you with a seamless relocation.

Furthermore, planning months ahead of time for long-distance moves is always preferable to make the process easier and quicker.

They Both Have Different Packing Techniques

When a team of expert interstate movers packs your possessions onto a truck, they'll ensure they're adequately cushioned and packed. The preparations will be different if your belongings are on a truck for days and you travel long distances. Hence, there are a few things you'll want to keep in mind:

• Changes in weather and temperature can significantly impact things like artwork, electronics, and furniture. If you're relocating long distances, you'll want to consider if you'll need a climate-controlled vehicle to secure your things. In contrast, the impact of time spent in the truck in the heat or cold is less relevant when driving locally.
• Each day your belongings spend on the truck increases the general wear and tear on moving boxes and furniture. That means extra padding, reinforcement, and attention to detail will be required while packing your belongings for the long haul. Your packing crew may take longer than they would for a local relocation, but it'll be well worth it.

The Calculated Moving Costs

Moving costs for long distance relocations are typically higher due to several key factors, including the total mileage traveled, the overall weight and volume of your shipment, and any additional services you may require such as packing, storage, or special handling of fragile items.

Unlike local moves, which are often charged by the hour based on the time it takes to load, transport, and unload your belongings within a limited geographic area, long distance or interstate moves usually involve flat-rate pricing that takes into account distance and weight.

Because pricing structures can vary widely between moving companies, it is essential to request detailed, written quotes that clearly outline all costs and services included. This allows you to make accurate comparisons, avoid hidden fees, and choose the best value option tailored to your specific relocation needs.

The Insurance Requirements

Federal law requires all removalists who perform interstate shifting assistance to provide two types of insurance:

• With Released Value Insurance, your belongings are valued at 60 cents per pound. This is typically the "basic" coverage option.
• Complete Value Protection protects the value of your possessions in the event of damage. This is typically an upgrade in your moving coverage.

However, shifters are not required to give this form of protection for local moves. Some will, but the majority will not. In either situation, you'll need to evaluate your risk tolerance and get adequate insurance to protect your things in the event of damage. Since not all moving firms offer additional services, you may need to contact an insurance company to evaluate your options.

Flexibility

When locomoting locally, most people make multiple journeys and relocate their belongings. There is no challenge because you can drive those 50 miles and get the stuff you left behind.

A long-distance move, on the other hand, does not provide this flexibility. You must adhere to your moving company's strict guidelines if you want your relocation to go well. You also don't have any other option but to move all of your stuff in one trip, so take advantage of it.

Psychological Stress

When planning a move to a nearby place, you won't worry much about the complexities of the move. However, it's a new ballgame involving packing your stuff and moving to a far place. You'll undoubtedly be stressed when relocating hundreds of miles to a new location.

You will have to be mindful of your valuables, furniture, and time all of the time. A reputable hauler can assist you in avoiding such psychological stress. Hire one and delegate all of your carrying obligations to them.

Your mover can handle everything from packing and loading your stuff into boxes to unloading those items in your new home. Ultimately, you would have enjoyed a safe and secure move to your new home or office.

Notable Moving Companies Specializing in Local and Long Distance Moves

When selecting a moving company for either local or long distance moves, it’s essential to choose providers with expertise in your specific type of relocation. Consider these key points:

• Leading long distance movers: United Van Lines, Mayflower Transit, and Three Movers are renowned for comprehensive interstate and cross-country relocation services, including full-service packing, storage, and insurance.
• Top local movers: Two Men and a Truck, Bellhop, and local branches of Allied Van Lines specialize in tailored solutions within city or regional limits.
• Licensing and experience: These companies are licensed, insured, and experienced in handling moves ranging from small apartments to large households.
• Due diligence: Always verify company credentials, read customer reviews, and request in-home estimates to ensure you’re working with reputable movers.
• Service quality: Opt for companies offering transparent pricing, clear communication, and flexible scheduling to make your move seamless.

Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, partnering with a trusted moving company ensures your belongings are handled safely and efficiently throughout the entire process.

Get a Free Moving Quote Now!

As the adage goes, "Experience breeds excellence." It's certainly true in the case of shifters. As a result, you should look for a hauling agency that has executed many moves. That says a lot about their performance and reliability.

You can leave behind the stress and headaches of moving. Our team of professional movers ensures that you will feel secure in knowing your possessions are taken care of properly. Contact us today to get a free moving quote!