If you are moving a long distance, then engaging a professional moving company is the best way to make the move as stress-free and hassle-free as possible. You want to work with a licensed and experienced moving company with full insurance coverage, a solid reputation in the community, and experience handling the logistics of long-distance moves.

Choosing a long-distance moving company is slightly different from choosing local movers. For instance, the company you pick may need to be licensed in both locations (the state you are moving from and the state you are moving to). Also, having familiarity with both neighborhoods can help you effectively transition to the new place.

You can follow this guide to ensure you hire the best long-distance moving company.

Ask for referrals

Start by requesting referrals from friends who have undertaken such a move before. Family, co-workers, and even real estate agents can recommend a reliable long-distance moving company they have worked with before. When you get referrals, research the movers on the internet. Ideally, it is best to consider local movers because you can always visit the firm for verification.

Compare estimates

Ask for in-home estimates for your moving costs. As a rule of thumb, do not settle for the first estimate you get; try to compare at least three moving companies and settle for the one that suits your needs. If the company provides an estimate online without even seeing your stuff, that is a red flag. No reliable moving company will give you an estimate without evaluating the items you need to move.

Be on the lookout for red flags.

As you ask for the estimate and negotiate with the moving company, watch out for red flags. Many reputable and reliable moving companies do not ask for cash deposits before you move. If the moving company seems hungry to get the payment upfront, you should tread with caution as they may not be legitimate. Ask some questions and see how the company reps respond. If they can’t answer some of the questions or seem unsure about their capabilities, it is best to look for another company.

Verify license and other credentials

In the US, interstate movers must have a department of transportation number in addition to other credentials. The number indicates that the moving company is authorized to transport cargo. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration also issues another number to verify legitimate moving companies. The company should also be fully insured to ensure the safety of your valuables during the move. Checking these details is the only way to ensure you are working with a genuine moving company.

Check reviews

Take your time reading reviews and finding out what other clients are saying about the moving company. This is also a chance to discover how the company deals with customer complaints. If you notice any negative reviews, tread with caution.

The bottom line

It is worth taking your time to make all the due considerations when hiring long-distance movers, as it gives you satisfaction knowing the company has your back.