The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.
Moving is more than packing boxes and changing your address — at its core, it also means leaving behind friends and neighbors and the familiarity of what is comfortable but has become mundane.
More than 27 million Americans move each year, which is crazy to think about, and roughly 15% of them are long-distance moves ( such as a cross country moving).
That’s millions of families and individuals moving away from their lives seeking new opportunities, better living conditions or a more lucrative career path.
If you are planning something major, such as a cross country Los Angeles move, you are not just dealing with logistics; you are managing stress, timelines, and a hefty checklist.
Studies show that moving ranks among the top five most stressful life events, right up there with divorce and job loss.
Why?
Because every item in those boxes represents memories, milestones, and sometimes even irreplaceable treasures.
Searching for the best moving company is something you NEED to do, not a luxury.
A good mover can ease your stress, save your stuff, and turn this transition into a journey rather than just another task to check off of your list.
But hold on a sec: how do you know which of the some 7,000 or so moving companies in the U.S. to trust?
Those are high stakes, especially if you’re on the lookout for the best cross country movers who can handle the complexities of distance and timing with skills.
In this guide, let’s discuss the steps to choose the best cross country moving company with confidence.
First things first, before you start your search, it is compulsory to assess your requirements:
Distance of the Move
Are you relocating and moving down the block, interstate or overseas?
If, for example, you are planning a cross country Los Angeles move, you will need a company experienced in long-distance relocations.
Volume of Belongings
Decide how big your move is going to be.
Are you living in a studio apartment or a multi-bedroom house? Your location will impact the service you need.
Special Items
Look for items that require special handling, like pianos, portraits or other art pieces, and antiques.
Once you have outlined your needs, start researching the best movers:
Recommendations: Request referrals from friends, family, or coworkers. Insights can come from personal experience.
Online Reviews: Go to the web and check out the Google review platform and the Better Business Bureau (BBB). It’s where customers leave their feedback. Identify businesses with prevalent five-star ratings and awesome feedback.
Professional Associations: Membership in organizations like the American Moving & Storage Association (AMSA) can indicate a company’s commitment to industry standards.
It is paramount to check the legitimacy of a moving company.
Licensing: Check that the company is registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) number and has a license identifying for-hire commercial vehicles transporting passengers or hauling cargo in interstate commerce between state lines on public highways.
Insurance: Check if the mover has enough coverage. Basic coverage is often 60 cents a pound, but you may want to upgrade to full-value protection for some peace of mind.
It’s advisable to get at least three in-home or virtual estimates:
Binding Estimates: A binding estimate guarantees the cost of the move based on the services and inventory provided.
Non-Binding Estimates: These are subject to change based on actual weight and services. Be cautious, as the final cost can be higher than the initial quote.
Stay alert to potential warning signs:
Large Upfront Deposits: The Best movers will only ask for a small (if any) deposit. A business that asks you for a very big advance payment should set off an alarm bell.
Lack of Physical Address: Verify that the company has a street address. Not having one is a warning sign.
Name Switches: Some companies use name switches to avoid negative reviews. Check how long the company has been in business and whether it maintains a consistent reputation.
Prior to entering into or executing any agreement:
Read Thoroughly: Make sure all the services, charges, and terms are in black and white.
Inventory List: Confirm every single one of your items is checked off the full list.
Liability Coverage: Understand what the company will cover for lost or damaged items.
Based on everything you need, you will require:
Packing & Unpacking: Companies like cross country moving offer full or partial packing and unpacking services.
Storage: If there is a gap between your move out and your move into your new home, ask about storing your items while they wait.
Special Handling: If your items are things like pianos or artwork, ensure that the company has experienced movers and equipment to move them safely.
The manner and speed in handling your inquiries is often a reflection of the level and quality of service you can expect to receive:
Communication: Are they quick to answer calls or emails? This matters when it comes to communication.
Transparency: Are their answers clear when you ask them questions?
Professionalism: Do their representatives sound polite and informed?
No matter how much you plan, things can go awry. Maybe your movers get delayed, or the weather doesn’t cooperate. Flexibility is key to maintaining your sanity on a moving day.
Keep a backup plan for contingencies.
For example, pack a few extra clothes in case of unexpected delays or make sure you have contact numbers for your movers and utility companies handy. Remember, the goal is progress, not perfection.
After the move:
Look through your stuff: Make sure nothing is broken or lost.
Report on Time: In case of issues, you should file a claim on time, as per the company’s communication.
Review: Give a review of your experience to help future customers make their decisions.
Book your moving company 4-8 weeks in advance to secure your preferred dates. Book even earlier for summer or peak seasons to avoid limited availability and higher prices.
A binding estimate is a fixed cost that won’t change, while a non-binding estimate may fluctuate based on the actual weight or services provided. Binding estimates offer more predictability.
Check for a valid USDOT number for interstate moves on the FMCSA website. For local moves, verify licenses through state authorities and check their BBB rating and customer reviews.
Take photos of the damage, notify the mover immediately, and file a claim within their timeframe, usually within 9 months. Additional insurance can simplify compensation.
Most movers won’t transport hazardous materials, perishable foods, plants, or pets. Confirm their restricted items list in advance to plan accordingly.
Choose Cross Country Moving for your next move because of our expertise, comprehensive services, reliable team, and commitment to customer satisfaction.
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