Cross State Moving Companies: Which One is Right for You?
Published by Chris Townsend
Cross State Moving Companies
Cross-State Movers
When you need to move beyond the state lines, it's known as an interstate move. State to state moving is much bigger than local moves or moves within the same state. You need excellent organization, a good plan, and the right cross country movers to help you.
Finding the Best Cross State Moving Company for Your Needs
A type of long distance move, an interstate move requires a lot of preparations before the moving date. Not only are you supposed to start packing your possessions, but you also need to arrange storage solutions. That's because you're not going to take all your belongings to your destination.
Regardless of the stuff you want to carry on your next move across the country - or things you want to sell, you need a moving company that also offers storage services. So, it isn't just about the basic moving services; there will be other long distance moving services that are normally overlooked. These include:
- Packing services
- Free moving boxes
- Cleaning services
- Portable moving containers
- First night box checklist
Initially, these services may seem odd, but you realize their importance when you run out of supplies in the middle of the packing process or when the post-packing mess goes beyond your control. That's exactly where you realize the importance of a full service company.
However, the most significant obstruction to hiring full service long distance mover is cost. Interstate moving companies can charge higher than your perceived average cost. However, there are plenty of interstate moving services available, and some of them can be cost effective.
As you start looking for the right cross-state movers, you want to make sure you know what to look for. The best interstate moving company will have plenty of great online reviews with four or five-star ratings. They will also offer all the services you need from packing and unpacking to furniture disassembly and assembly.
No matter what you need, the right interstate movers will provide it for you and make your long distance move as stress free as possible.
Key Considerations for Full Service Moving Company
Cross Country Moving Truck
Sometimes the names can be confusing. You must have heard terms like, "long distance moving companies", "local movers", and "cross country movers". So many names can make one wonder they all are different.
Well, they are, as far as scope is concerned. However, a professional moving company may have sufficient resources to take care of long distance moves, local moves, or interstate moves. Such movers are termed full service movers; they offer all kinds of moving services that may include specialty services.
For example, what if you need a professional to take care of your fragile items? Full service moving companies offer fragile only packing to make sure these items reach the destination safely. Also, if you have too much stuff and you're not going to relocate with everything, full service movers can take care of that.
Apart from full service packing, professional movers also offer temporary storage facilities where you can keep the items that you don't want to carry.
What else makes a moving service suitable for cross country moves? How is a full service mover better than other movers? Let's dive into details below:
Registered and Certified
It's easier to choose among long distance moving companies by reviewing customer feedback. Good companies, such as North American van lines, United van lines, Allied van lines, etc., are BBB certified. This means you can see their average rating, individual customer reviews, complaints, praises, and learn from their experiences.
Also, long distance movers (interstate moving services) are also registered on FMCSA and are abide by its regulations. This affiliation helps long distance movers not only to meet customer requirements but also to set themselves apart. In a nutshell, your long distance moves will be safe, not to mention the good customer service.
A Free Quote
This trait is not common, but surely a possibility. If it's your first move cross country, you'll definitely want to contact a number of moving companies to get the moving quote. While it's tough to come up with a rough estimate without inspecting the location, some long distance moving companies are experienced enough to guess the cost.
Moving companies like Three Movers offer quick free-of-cost moving quotes, which will give you a clear idea about minimizing the cost.
Written Estimate
After taking quotes from different moving companies, you can compare their prices and shortlist the best ones. Now, it's time to call them back and ask them to visit your place and get the written quotation. Remember that long distance moving companies are compelled to meet the written quote, but are not liable for rough estimates.
Moving and Storage Facilities
Cross country moves always come with a handful of surprises. There will be so many things that you don't want to take with you. And if the time is too short, you may not be able to get rid of them. What would you do then? A full-service long distance moving company can be your savior.
Apart from the moving services, a professional long distance moving company will also offer storage facilities to secure your belongings for a limited period. That will be a big relief as you can now focus on other important things related to your long distance move.
Corporate Relocation
Long distance moves that involve transporting special equipment, heavy furniture, or tech stuff are quite technical and time-consuming. You cannot take chances, hence required long distance movers that have the right experience to take the responsibility.
From packing your items to choosing the right moving truck and more, an experienced moving company knows how to make a long distance move safe.
Top 3 Long Distance Moving Companies
moving truck for long distance moves
There are plenty of considerations, however, we've discussed the basic ones to help you choose the right long distance moving company. The question is, do you have time for research? Well, the list of moving companies is quite long, and may take you hours to pick the best moving company.
So, here's a short and concise list of long distance moving companies that can transport your possessions safely across the state lines.
1. Three Movers
A well-known long distance moving company offering cross-state moving service, Three Movers has been in the moving industry for a long time. They are a fully insured and licensed company registered with the Department of Transportation. Moreover, the interstate movers are registered on Better Business Bureau.
When it comes to cross country move, Three Movers has been maintaining an excellent track record. It utilizes all the resources to make it a successful move for you. If you’re seeking one of the top full-service long distance movers and wondering how can I ship my belongings to another state cheaply, this is the right company for your needs.
Their average rating is quite satisfactory. This is why the moving company has been competing with big brands like United Van Lines, Allied Van Lines, North American Van Lines, and International Van Lines, etc. You can contact them to get instant online quotes. They'll make sure you don't have to pay extra on your long distance move.
2. U-Pack
When you're on a tighter budget or you simply don't want to spend the money on a full-service moving company, U-Pack offers a great moving and storage solution. They will bring a portable storage container known as ReloCubes or a trailer to your location for you to load up. Once you're done with loading, a moving truck will transport it to your new location.
Apart from the moving container beyond the state lines, the long distance mover also offers temporary storage services, and lets you do the unloading.
U-Pack is one of the best cross country movers for those who have a tighter budget and don't want to avail packing, loading, unloading, and unpacking services. Although DIY moving is not stress free, it's less stressful, as you don't have to contact the container company or hire a separate auto transport for cross country move.
3. Colonial Van Lines
9kilo.com rates Colonial Van Lines as the top long distance moving option for interstate moves. They offer great customer service and all the services you need if you plan to move across the country.
How to Save Money on Long Distance Moves
For an interstate move, you should know a few ways to save money. The right cross country movers are a good start, but you can also use the following tips to cut your moving costs considerably:
- Move at the Right Time: Long distance moving can be expensive, or below the average cost, depending on the time of year you chose. Typically, long distance moves during the late spring, summer, or early fall tend to be expensive. On the other hand, if you move across the country during the off-peak season; from September to May, you will save money. Whether local moves of cross country moves, the rates are often the best in November, December, and January.
- Sell Big Items: Long distance moving companies often charge based on weight or the amount of space you take up. Therefore, to minimize your average cost, you can sell off larger items.
- Do the Packing Yourself: Packing will be the one integral part of interstate moving services. However, it's not mandatory. If you don't want the long distance moving company to do the packing, that will help you cut down your cost of long distance move.
There are many great ways to save money on your long distance move across the country. Use these tips and hire one of the top cross country moving companies for your upcoming move.
Get the Best Move Beyond the State Lines
With Three Movers, you can save more on your long distance move in a number of ways. We follow the best practices of the moving industry no matter you want to settle within the city, across the street, or beyond the state lines.
If you need both a moving broker and a full service staff, we got you covered. From preparing your first night box checklist to managing the unloading and unpacking, there's nothing we can't do. It's all about making our customers satisfied.
So, contact us to get the moving quote - or hire us to have stress-free move!
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Frequently Asked Questions
The cost of shipping a car across state lines can vary greatly depending on several factors, but I can give you a rough estimate and explain the things that affect the price.
Here's a general range:
- Average: $500 to $1,500 or more
- Open carriers (most common): $600 to $2,000
- Enclosed carriers (better protection): $1,500 to $4,000+
Factors that affect the cost:
- Distance: The farther you ship, the more expensive it will be. Expect to pay around $0.30 to $1.05 per mile, with longer distances generally having a lower per-mile cost.
- Type of car: Larger and heavier vehicles like trucks and SUVs cost more to ship than smaller cars like sedans. This is because they take up more space on the carrier and may require special handling.
- Shipping method: Open carriers are the most common and cheapest option, but enclosed carriers offer better protection from the elements and are recommended for valuable or classic cars.
- Route and season: Demand for shipping can fluctuate depending on the time of year and the route. Shipping during peak season or to popular destinations may cost more.
- Additional services: Some companies offer door-to-door pickup and delivery, expedited shipping, and insurance, which can add to the cost.
It's best to get several estimates from different car shipping companies to get a more accurate quote.
- The average cost for hiring Columbus interstate movers ranges from $512 to $4,765.
- This translates to an hourly rate of $145 per hour, with the total cost depending on the size of your move and the services you need.
- The average cost for hiring interstate movers ranges from $1,123 to $14,107.
- This translates to an hourly rate of $110 to $250 per hour, with the total cost depending on the size of your move and the services you need.
There are several ways to determine if a company has a good reputation. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Online Research: Start by conducting a thorough online search. Look for the company's official website, social media accounts, and online reviews. Read both positive and negative reviews to get a balanced perspective. Pay attention to any patterns or recurring complaints.
2. Review Websites: Visit reputable reviews such as Yelp, Google Reviews, or Glassdoor. These platforms provide insights from customers, employees, and even former employees. Look for overall ratings and read individual reviews to understand different experiences.
3. Industry Publications: Check if the company has been featured in industry publications or news outlets. Positive coverage and awards can indicate a good reputation. Conversely, negative press or scandals may raise concerns.
4. Word of Mouth: Talk to people with direct company experience. Reach out to friends, family, or colleagues who may have interacted with the company as customers, employees, or business partners. Their personal experiences can provide valuable insights.
5. Better Business Bureau (BBB): Visit the BBB website and search for the company. The BBB assigns ratings based on customer complaints, resolution of issues, and other factors. A high BBB rating indicates a good reputation.
6. Company's Social Responsibility: Research the company's commitment to social responsibility and ethical practices. Look for information about their environmental initiatives, community involvement, or philanthropic efforts. A company that prioritizes these aspects often has a positive reputation.
7. Employee Reviews: Websites like Glassdoor allow current and former employees to review companies anonymously. Reading these reviews can provide insights into the company's culture, work environment, and treatment of employees.
8. Professional Network: Reach out to professionals in the industry or network with individuals who may know the company. Attend industry events or join relevant online communities to gather information and opinions.
By combining these approaches, you can comprehensively understand a company's reputation. Remember that a single negative review or complaint may not necessarily indicate a bad reputation, so it's important to consider the overall picture.
The cheapest way to ship your car will depend on factors such as the distance, the type of transport, and any additional services you may require. Here are a few options to consider:
1. Open Transport: This is the most common and affordable car shipping method. Your vehicle will be loaded onto an open trailer along with other vehicles. While it provides less protection than enclosed transport, it is generally cheaper.
2. Terminal-to-Terminal Shipping: With this option, you drop off your car at a designated terminal, and it will be transported to another terminal near your destination. This can be more cost-effective as it eliminates the need for door-to-door service.
3. Multiple Quotes: Obtain quotes from multiple car shipping companies to compare prices. Consider their reputation, insurance coverage, and customer reviews before deciding.
4. Seasonal Considerations: Shipping during off-peak seasons or avoiding peak times like holidays and summer can sometimes result in lower prices due to decreased demand.
5. Flexible Dates: If you have flexible schedules, you can inquire about discounted rates for shipping dates that may be less busy for the carrier.
Remember, while cost is important, ensuring that the shipping company is reputable and provides adequate insurance coverage for your vehicle is also crucial.
Here's a rough estimate of packing times for a one-bedroom apartment based on different scenarios:
- Fast and efficient: 4-8 hours
- Detailed and careful: 1-2 days
- Large apartment with clutter: 2-3 days
- With packing help: 2-4 hours
- Professional packers: 3-6 hours
- Local moves: $349 to $549 on average
- Long-distance moves: $500 to $7,600, with an average of around $5,700
There are several ways to find interstate and long-distance movers:
1. Online search: Search engines like Google to find moving companies specializing in interstate and long-distance moves. You can search for keywords like "interstate movers" or "long-distance movers" along with your location to find relevant results.
2. Recommendations: Ask friends, family, or colleagues who have recently moved long-distance for recommendations. Personal recommendations can be valuable as they come from trusted sources.
3. Online directories: Websites like the American Moving and Storage Association (AMSA) and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) have directories of reputable moving companies. These directories often include customer reviews and ratings to help you make an informed decision.
4. Get multiple quotes: Contact several moving companies and request quotes for your specific move. This will allow you to compare prices, services, and customer reviews to find the best option.
5. Check licensing and credentials: Ensure that the moving companies you consider are properly licensed and have the credentials to handle interstate moves. You can verify this information through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website or by contacting the relevant state authorities.
6. Read reviews and testimonials: Look for online reviews and testimonials from previous customers to get an idea of the quality of service provided by different moving companies. Websites like Yelp, Google Reviews, and Angie's List can help find customer feedback.
7. Ask for references: When contacting moving companies, don't hesitate to ask for references from previous customers who have moved long-distance. Talking to these references can provide insights into the company's professionalism, reliability, and overall customer satisfaction.
8. Consult with a relocation specialist: If you need clarification on the process or assistance finding a reputable moving company, consider consulting with a relocation specialist. These professionals can guide you through the process and help you find the best movers for your needs.
Remember to thoroughly research, compare services and prices, and read the fine print in any contracts before making a final decision.
- Expect to pay between $2,000 and $8,000 for a cross-country move.
- Coast-to-coast moves may average slightly higher, ranging from $2,200 to $15,000.
Whether you should hire professional movers or rent a moving truck depends on several factors, and there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of each option to help you decide:
Hiring professional movers:
Pros:
- Convenience: Professionals handle everything from packing to loading and unloading, reducing stress and physical effort.
- Efficiency: They're experienced and skilled, completing the move faster than you might yourself.
- Protection: They typically provide insurance for your belongings and handle them carefully, minimizing damage risks.
- Time-saving: You can focus on other aspects of your move while they handle the heavy lifting.
- Specialty services: Many companies offer packing, unpacking, furniture disassembly/assembly, and appliance disconnect/reconnect services.
Cons:
- Cost: Hiring movers is generally more expensive than renting a truck and doing it yourself.
- Loss of control: You may need more control over how your belongings are packed and transported.
- Availability: Finding a reputable mover with available dates during peak season can be challenging.
- Potential hidden fees: Understand all costs before signing a contract, as additional fees for weight exceedances, stairs, or fragile items may apply.
Renting a moving truck:
Pros:
- Cost-effective: Renting a truck is typically cheaper than hiring professional movers, especially for smaller moves.
- Control: You have complete control over the packing, loading, and driving, letting you customize the process to your preferences.
- Flexibility: You can choose your moving date and schedule around your needs.
- Potentially quicker for short distances: You can complete short moves faster than waiting for a moving company's availability.
Cons:
- Physical effort: Moving furniture and heavy boxes can be demanding and time-consuming.
- Risk of injury: Improper lifting techniques can lead to injuries.
- Driving stress: Maneuvering a large truck can be stressful and challenging, especially while loaded.
- Equipment rental: You may need dollies, ramps, and packing supplies.
- Liability: You are responsible for any damage to your belongings or the truck throughout the moving process.
Here are some additional factors to consider:
- Size of your move: Professional movers might be more efficient and convenient for large moves with lots of furniture.
- Physical capabilities: If you have physical limitations or aren't comfortable lifting heavy objects, hiring movers might be a better option.
- Time constraints: If you have a tight timeframe for your move, professional movers can ensure it gets done quickly.
- Distance: Longer distance moves tend to favor professional movers due to their expertise and efficiency.
Ultimately, your best choice depends on your needs, budget, and preferences. Consider your circumstances and weigh each option's pros and cons before making your decision.
- Expect to pay between $400 and $1,300 for shipping a motorcycle within the continental US.
- Prices can be higher for longer distances or international shipping.
When comparing and choosing between different cross-state moving companies, consider the following factors:
1. Reputation and Experience: Look for companies with a good reputation and extensive experience in cross-state moving. Read online reviews, check their ratings with the Better Business Bureau, and ask for references.
2. Licensing and Insurance: Ensure the moving company is properly licensed and insured. Ask for their Department of Transportation (DOT) number and verify it with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
3. Services Offered: Determine the specific services each company offers. Some may provide packing and unpacking services, storage options, or specialized handling for fragile items. Choose a company that meets your specific needs.
4. Price and Estimates: Obtain detailed written estimates from multiple moving companies. Compare their prices, but be cautious of unusually low quotes, which may indicate subpar service or hidden charges. Ensure the estimates include all relevant costs, such as packing materials, transportation, and additional benefits.
5. Insurance Coverage: Inquire about the insurance coverage provided by the moving company. Ask about their liability for damaged or lost items during the move and any additional insurance options.
6. Customer Support: Evaluate each company's customer support level. Are they responsive to your inquiries and concerns? Do they provide clear communication throughout the moving process?
7. Availability and Scheduling: Check the moving companies' availability and ability to accommodate your preferred moving dates. Ensure they have the necessary resources and personnel to handle your move within your desired timeframe.
8. Contract and Terms: Carefully review the contract and terms offered by each company. Pay attention to cancellation policies, payment terms, and other conditions that may affect your move.
9. Recommendations and Referrals: Seek recommendations and referrals from friends, family, or colleagues who have recently undergone a cross-state move. Their firsthand experiences can provide valuable insights and help you make an informed decision.
10. Trust your Instincts: Trust your instincts when choosing a moving company. Exploring other options is better if something feels off or you need more clarification on their reliability or professionalism.
By considering these factors and conducting thorough research, you can make an informed decision and choose the cross-state moving company that best fits your needs and requirements.
To ensure that an interstate moving company is legitimate, you can follow these steps:
1. Research and gather information: Research different moving companies and compile a list of potential options. Look for companies that have been in business for a considerable amount of time and have a good reputation.
2. Check licensing and registration: Interstate movers must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and have a unique USDOT number. Visit the FMCSA's website and use their search tool to verify the company's registration and licensing status.
3. Read reviews and ratings: Look for customer reviews and ratings on reputable platforms such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google, or Yelp. Pay attention to positive and negative feedback to get a balanced perspective on the company's services.
4. Request proof of insurance: A legitimate moving company should have insurance coverage to protect your belongings during transit. Ask for proof of insurance and verify that it is valid and sufficient to cover your possessions.
5. Obtain written estimates: Contact the moving companies on your list and request written estimates. Legitimate companies will typically send a representative to your home to assess the belongings and provide an accurate assessment. Be cautious of significantly low or high estimates compared to others, as they could be red flags.
6. Avoid large upfront deposits: Be cautious of companies that demand a large upfront deposit before the move. Legitimate movers usually require payment upon delivery of your belongings.
7. Ask for references: Request references from the moving company and contact previous customers to inquire about their experience. This can give you valuable insights into the company's reliability and professionalism.
8. Trust your instincts: If something feels off or if the company's representatives are unprofessional or evasive, it's best to trust your instincts and consider other options.
By following these steps, you can ensure that you hire a legitimate interstate moving company that will handle your move professionally and responsibly.
There are several advantages of hiring Three Movers for cross-state moves:
1. Efficiency: Three Movers are experienced professionals specializing in cross-state moves. They have the necessary skills and expertise to efficiently handle all aspects of the move, from packing and loading to transportation and unloading. This ensures the entire process is completed promptly, saving you valuable time and effort.
2. Safety: Moving long distances can be physically demanding and potentially risky. Three Movers are trained to carefully handle heavy and fragile items, minimizing the risk of damage or injuries during the move. They also have the necessary equipment and tools to secure your belongings properly, ensuring their safety throughout the journey.
3. Cost-effective: While hiring professional movers may seem like an added expense, it can be cost-effective in the long run. Three Movers provide a comprehensive service that includes packing materials, transportation, and labor. By hiring them, you avoid the need to rent a truck, purchase packing supplies, and potentially incur additional costs due to damages or delays.
4. Insurance coverage: Reputable moving companies like Three Movers typically offer insurance coverage for your belongings during the move. This provides peace of mind, knowing that you will be compensated accordingly if any damage or loss occurs. Discussing the insurance details with the company beforehand is important to understand the extent of coverage provided.
5. Stress reduction: Moving can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, especially when it involves long distances. Hiring Three Movers allows you to delegate the entire moving process to professionals, relieving you of the physical and mental strain. They will handle all the logistics, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your move, such as settling into your new home.
Hiring Three Movers for cross-state moves offers convenience, efficiency, safety, and peace of mind. It ensures that your belongings are in capable hands and that the moving process is handled smoothly and professionally.
Three Movers is the best interstate moving company.
Booking an interstate moving company at least 8-12 weeks in advance is generally recommended. This allows you to secure a reputable company and ensure availability during your desired moving dates. However, it is important to note that peak moving seasons (typically summer months and weekends) may require even more advanced booking, as moving companies tend to be in high demand during these times.
