If you’ve been wondering what services long distance moving companies can offer, it’s important to understand the difference between moving from one neighborhood to another and moving hundreds or thousands of miles away. Moving far away can be stressful, which is why many homeowners delegate as many of the moving responsibilities as possible to a professional Houston moving company. This leaves homeowners free to focus on other things that matter, like preparing for the new life adventure ahead.
The Difference Between Local Only and Long Distance Moving Companies
Putting an entire household of furniture and personal belongings on a moving truck is a lot of work and causes stress for some. Thoughts begin running through their mind as they begin to wonder if they put enough bubble wrap around that glass figurine, or if that box they packed full of books is still holding together.
When a person is moving locally, the biggest concerns are having the items make it on the van safely across one highway and a couple of residential streets before it is time to unload them.
However, long distance moves generally involve multiple highway changes, residential roads, and possibly a quick stop or two to refuel. Comprehensively, this can increase the movement of items inside the van with full stops, accelerations, and decelerations. This is when the answers to those questions about the glass figurine and books become even more critical.
What Services Can Long Distance Moving Companies Offer?
When relocating to a new destination that is far away, it is critical to consider what services long distance moving companies offer. A further move can require the management of literally hundreds of details, from finding new schools to new banks to new doctors, and more. With so many things to balance at one time, it can be more important than ever to enlist the help of a professional moving company that offers services such as the following:
What to Look for in a Long-Distance Moving Company
Once it is established that a long-distance moving company has the services required, a little more vetting is advisable. In order to have more peace of mind about the move and every step along the way, it is highly recommended to also verify the following information for moving companies you are considering:
- When it comes to long distance moves, it is necessary to find a company with plenty of experience with these types of moves versus those who have previously only moved a few blocks or a neighborhood over. The more years of experience a provider has, the better.
- Current licensing and insurance. Moving companies must have standard licenses to operate both within the state and across state lines. Ensure that the provider you select has all the necessary licenses and that they are current. Also confirm that the company is insured to better protect the items being moved.
- Proper truck maintenance. When hundreds or thousands of miles are going to be logged by a moving truck, it helps to know that the vehicle has been properly maintained. Ask what standards the provider uses for regular truck maintenance and how often it is performed.
- Average damage rate. While it would be ideal for nothing to ever be damaged in a move, it can happen from time to time. For this reason, verify a moving company’s average damage rate. If zero percent seems too good to be true, it might be because it is. It can be more doable to look for closer to a one percent damage rate.
- Good communication. Long distances can require multiple stops for refueling as well as other reasons. With you being separated from your belongings during the move, it is key to check that the company will be in regular communication with you about their progress.
Learning what services long distance moving companies offer is a critical part of moving. The amount of preparation and due diligence you put into finding the most competent, trustworthy, and professional movers will likely yield what you put into it. Moving does not have to be hard if you hire a professional Houston moving company that knows how to move smart.