10 Best Long-Distance Moving Companies in Hingham, MA (2024)

Long-distance or interstate moves bring their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by picking the best movers for the job. We've compiled this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Hingham so you, your loved ones, and your possessions get to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only do local moves. Local movers only operate within a specific geographic radius and frequently charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to these jobs at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers are more likely to charge based on how long a job takes. Keep in mind that some moving companies might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Local Hingham moving companies are often more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when relocating to another state. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Hingham

Picking the right long-distance mover is important, and the options can feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of choosing a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Hingham, we've compiled some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, ask about the options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance choices offered by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers provide a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start requesting estimates several months ahead of your move. Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Hingham and request detailed quotes. Make sure these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing options. A moving or relocation loan can pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several loans allows you to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about specific long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to hire a moving company. Hingham also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you suspicious. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your full payment before the move. If a moving company has a long history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Booking your movers far enough in advance is extremely important for a successful long-distance move. We suggest booking your move at least three months beforehand, or even earlier if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. You might prefer to keep certain sentimental, valuable, or fragile possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Create a list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move. The list should include tasks such as updating your address with the Massachusetts DMV.

Put together a suitcase with essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as extra clothes, medicine, and toiletries.

Lastly, make sure to get plenty of rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but offers more coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it has less protection. With this insurance, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged items.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

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