The Best Interstate Moving Companies

Moving to a new home in a different state can be an exciting but stressful experience. Choosing the right interstate moving company is key to ensuring a smooth transition to your new location. With hundreds of options to choose from, selecting the best interstate mover for your specific needs can feel overwhelming.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know to find and vet top-rated interstate moving companies. We’ll cover factors to consider when choosing a long-distance mover, provide an overview of the largest and most reputable interstate moving companies, and give tips for getting quotes and avoiding rogue movers. Whether you’re relocating for a new job or just looking for a change of scenery, read on for advice on finding the best interstate mover for your upcoming move.

How to Choose the Best Interstate Moving Company

Selecting the right interstate mover involves carefully evaluating a number of key factors including:

Reputation and Reviews

One of the best ways to gauge the quality of an interstate moving company is to read through reviews from past customers. Look for movers that have overwhelmingly positive reviews describing professional service, timely delivery, reasonable pricing, and careful handling of belongings. Be sure to check reviews on multiple third-party sites to get the full picture. Avoid companies with numerous bad reviews citing damaged items, hidden fees, or unresponsive staff.

Licensing and Insurance

Only consider interstate moving companies that are licensed, bonded, and insured. Ask for the USDOT license number and confirm it is legitimate. Interstate movers are required to register with the FMCSA and obtain a USDOT number proving they are authorized to operate across state lines. Also verify the company has adequate cargo insurance, which will cover replacement costs in the event belongings are lost, stolen, or damaged.

Experience with Interstate Moves

Find a company that specializes in long-distance moves rather than local transports. Experienced interstate movers will be familiar with all federal regulations, state-specific requirements, and have an established network of agents to assist with unloading and delivery. Ask how many interstate relocations the company handles per year.

National Mover Networks

The best interstate movers often belong to national van line networks such as United Van Lines, Mayflower, Atlas Van Lines, and more. These networks allow local moving companies to transport your belongings long distances by contracting with affiliates in other states. This gives you the assurance of a large national brand while still providing local service.

Moving Services Offered

Consider what moving services you may need for your upcoming relocation. Many of the best interstate movers are full-service companies that can provide services like packing/unpacking, crating for valuables, vehicle transport, storage-in-transit, and more. Determine what assistance you’ll require and find a mover that offers those specific services.

Online Reviews and Rating

Do a quick online search for consumer reviews of the top interstate moving companies on your list. Sources like Transport Reviews and the Better Business Bureau allow you to view positive and negative customer feedback side-by-side. This makes it easy to compare movers based on star ratings, number of complaints, resolution time, and more.

The Best National Interstate Moving Companies

If you are moving long-distance, working with one of the large van lines below will ensure quality service across state lines:

Mayflower

Part of the UniGroup family of brands, Mayflower has been in business since 1927. They coordinate full-service interstate moves through their network of 900 independent agents. Available services include packing, loading, transportation, GPS tracking, unloading, and more. Get a custom instant quote on their website.

United Van Lines

United Van Lines is the largest van line in the US and handles over 100,000 interstate relocations per year. They are an industry leader in customer service and technology. United operates through a network of 700 affiliate agents and can assist with any relocation need.

Atlas Van Lines

As one of the largest national movers, Atlas Van Lines provides reliable coast-to-coast transportation. They specialize in corporate and government relocations. Atlas agents are experienced at moving everything from household goods to delicate equipment. Get a free estimate for your interstate move on their website.

Bekins Van Lines

Bekins Van Lines is a top-rated interstate mover that handles over 60,000 long-distance relocations annually across the lower 48 states. The Bekins network consists of several hundred local agents who coordinate professional packing, loading, and transportation.

Wheaton World Wide Moving

Wheaton is one of the nation’s most trusted interstate movers, with decades of experience transporting household goods coast-to-coast. Their white glove service includes a personalized moving coordinator and storage solutions if needed. Get a free quote online.

North American Van Lines

As a highly-rated national mover, North American Van Lines provides seamless interstate relocation services through their network of local agents. They handle everything from packing fragile items to vehicle transport and temporary storage.

Questions to Ask Potential Interstate Moving Companies

Once you’ve compiled a list of the best interstate moving companies in your area, take time to interview each one to find the right fit. Here are some key questions to ask:

How long have you been in business?

More experienced interstate moving companies are a safer choice. Be cautious of new companies that lack an established reputation.

How many interstate moves do you handle per year?

Choose a mover that specializes in long-distance relocations rather than local moves. This ensures they are familiar with all regulations.

Do you have a USDOT license and FMCSA registration?

Interstate movers must be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration and have a USDOT number. Verify this for any movers you are considering.

What services do you provide specifically for interstate moves?

Long-distance moves may require additional services like a climate-controlled truck, extra packing materials, or vehicle transport. Ask what’s included.

Do you own your own trucks, or contract with other movers?

Some interstate movers own their fleet, while others coordinate moves through an affiliated network. There are pros and cons to each.

How much cargo insurance do you carry?

Interstate movers are required to maintain minimum levels of insurance but can opt for higher coverage. Ensure they have adequate protection for your belongings.

Can you provide references from recent interstate moves?

Talking to past customers who have completed long-distance moves provides helpful insights into the company’s quality.

What happens if my belongings are damaged during the move?

An established claims process is essential. Ask about the timeframe for reporting damages and the reimbursement procedure.

Do you offer storage options if I can’t move into my new home right away?

Temporary storage is common with interstate relocations in case of delays with real estate closings or renovations.

Red Flags to Watch For

While most interstate moving companies are reputable, there are unfortunately scams out there you’ll want to avoid. Watch out for the following red flags:

• Quotes that seem unrealistically low
• No USDOT number or FMCSA registration
• Generic company name and website
• Claims of “guaranteed pickup and delivery dates”
• Requesting large down payment or full payment before delivery
• Lack of physical address for the company
• Unresolved complaints with Better Business Bureau

Reputable interstate movers will never ask you to wire money or pay in full before your belongings are delivered. Steer clear of movers engaging in suspicious business practices.

Tips for Getting Accurate Price Estimates

The cost of an interstate move varies drastically based on factors like distance, number of belongings, truck size, and services required. Follow these tips for getting the most accurate price estimate:

• Be as thorough as possible when completing the inventory checklist.
• Disclose any high-value specialty items that may incur additional insurance fees.
• Make it clear if you want full-service packing/loading or will handle some yourself.
• Ask if your selected move dates are peak season or off-peak when getting a quote.
• Request an in-home visit from the interstate mover to survey your belongings in person.
• Obtain binding estimates in writing after an in-person walkthrough whenever possible.
• Get quotes from at least 3-4 interstate moving companies to compare rates.
• Avoid very small or very large trucks beyond what you require for cost-efficiency.

Keep in mind that final charges will be based on actual weight loaded on the truck. Having an accurate idea of your belongings and their weight sets realistic pricing expectations.

Questions to Ask for an Accurate Estimate

To get the closest thing to an actual moving quote over the phone or online, ask these detailed questions:

• How exactly do you calculate the estimated price for an interstate move? Do you use an industry standard pricing program?
• What are your rates per pound, or per hundredweight? How does pricing change between local, intrastate, and interstate moves?
• Do you use your own scales to weigh the truck before and after loading? If not, are third-party weigh stations used?
• What additional charges should I expect for supplies, insurance, tolls, etc? Are fuel costs included or will there be surcharges?
• How much extra will packing and unpacking services cost? What about crating large items or high-value antiques?
• Will I incur fees for accessing elevators, stair carries, parking permits, or other requirements in a large apartment complex?
• Are there discounts for moving during off-peak season or reserving on short notice?
• Is vehicle transport an all-inclusive fee, or will there be add-ons for extra cars, large trucks, or inoperable vehicles?
• What happens if I add more items later on? Will exceeding the agreed-upon cubic footage adjust pricing?

Transparent interstate movers will provide detailed responses to these types of questions, allowing you to get as close as possible to a true estimate without a visual assessment. Comparing bids across multiple movers helps determine fair market pricing in your region. Just be sure to get any estimates in writing before contract signing.

Choosing Between Binding and Non-Binding Estimates

• Binding estimates: These guaranteed quotes are based on an in-home inventory where the interstate mover visually assesses your belongings. As long as no new items are added, the final price cannot exceed the binding estimate (unless you request additional services).
• Non-binding estimates: These are not guaranteed quotes but rather rough estimates based on the details you provide. The final cost may be lower or higher than the non-binding estimate after loading. Non-binding estimates are more common.

Binding estimates provide price protection but are trickier for interstate movers to provide sight unseen. Some companies charge a fee for binding estimates. Non-binding estimates offer more flexibility but less certainty. Be sure to inquire what type of estimate any prospective interstate mover will offer.

Warning Signs of Rogue Interstate Movers

While most interstate moving companies are ethical, dishonest operators do exist. Be on the lookout for the following red flags:

• Cannot provide a USDOT number or FMCSA operating authority
• Vague about pricing with quotes far below competitors
• Asks for large down payment before pickup
• Does not come perform in-home inspection for binding estimate
• Handles all communication online or over the phone
• Does not have a company-owned truck and trailer
• Corporate address is a P.O. Box instead of physical premises

Reputable interstate movers will never demand upfront payment and will have verifiable licenses, registration, insurance, and place of business. Steer clear of movers operating with blatant signs of fraud.

How to Report and Avoid Rogue Movers

If you suspect an interstate moving company is running a scam, stop communications and report them right away to prevent financial loss and cargo theft.

• Report the company to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration via their National Consumer Complaint Database.
• File a complaint with the Better Business Bureau, Yelp, and other review sites to warn others.
• Consult the American Moving & Storage Association‘s ProMover program to verify the company is an approved member.
• Check out the Moving Scam Warning signs from AMSA as well.

Avoid being targeted by only hiring registered interstate movers, getting binding estimates, reading reviews, asking for references, and never paying large sums upfront. Being an informed consumer is your best defense.

Licensing Required for Interstate Movers

Legitimate interstate moving companies must register for operating authority with the FMCSA and meet these legal requirements:

• USDOT Number – Must be displayed on all trucks and documentation
• Motor Carrier (MC) Number – Confirms status as an interstate commerce carrier
• Cargo Insurance – Minimum $750,000 coverage required by law
• Process Agent – Designated to receive legal documents in each state
• Tariff – Rates, rules, and regulations on file for each state

Check the FMCSA website to validate a company’s licenses as well as safety records, complaint history, and insurance status. Disregard any mover who says licensing is “not required.”

Questions to Ask About Licensing:

When interviewing interstate moving companies, ask the following key licensing questions:

• Are you registered with the FMCSA to complete interstate moves?
• What is your USDOT and MC number? May I see your FMCSA operating authority?
• Who is your registered process agent in my state?
• How much cargo insurance do you carry? May I have a copy of your certificate of insurance?
• Do you have an approved Household Goods tariff on file with the FMCSA? At what locations can I review it?

Reputable movers will have quick answers and documentation for these questions readily available. If a company seems evasive about licensing, move your search forward.

6 Tips for a Stress-Free Interstate Move

1. Plan ahead. Give yourself plenty of time – 2-3 months for interstate moves – to arrange details.
2. Purge belongings. Get rid of items you no longer need to streamline moving.
3. Work with mover to determine truck size. Make sure it can safely fit your entire inventory.
4. Separate valuables/documents to transport yourself – don’t pack money, jewelry, or important records.
5. Pack an essentials box with items you’ll need immediately at your new home.
6. Inspect your belongings upon delivery before signing off. Document all damage immediately.

Additional packing and planning resources:

• Printable moving checklists | American Moving & Storage Association
• How to Pack for an Interstate Move | Move.org

Thorough preparation ensures your long-distance relocation goes smoothly from start to finish!

Why Hire Professionals for Interstate Moves?

Completing a DIY move across state lines is possible but challenging for many reasons:

No trucks large enough – Borrowing a friend’s pickup won’t work for a long-distance move. Renting trucks for one-way travel gets very expensive.

** convoluted logistics** – Figuring out routes, rest stops, hotels, parking, tolls, etc for a cross country DIY move is extremely difficult.

Loading challenges – Proper weight distribution and securing belongings takes special equipment and expertise. Items can easily be damaged if loaded incorrectly.

Time restraints – Driving a rental truck 1,000+ miles will take several exhausting days in transit. There are strict limits on consecutive driving hours.

Unloading help – At your destination, you’ll still need assistance unloading. Hiring random laborers raises risks of theft.

For most interstate moves, the coordination involved makes hiring professional movers well worth the investment. Their experience transporting household goods long distances ensures a smooth transition to your new home.

Key Takeaways

• Start researching interstate moving companies 2-3 months in advance of your move date.
• Check reviews, credentials, licensing and talk to previous customers before deciding on a mover.
• Get an in-home estimate to obtain the most accurate quote possible.
• Ask for copies of a mover’s USDOT number, MC license, insurance paperwork and other documentation.
• Report suspicious interstate movers to the FMCSA and organizations like BBB before doing business with them.
• Don’t pay large sums upfront or agree to wire transfers when hiring interstate movers.

By following the tips in this guide, you can feel confident you are choosing a reputable company that will safely transport your valued possessions to your new out-of-state home. Best of luck on your upcoming interstate move!