Moving From LA To NY
A cross country move can at first appear to be a daunting task, but done wisely, and with proper planning and execution, it can be an exciting and memorable adventure. We will discuss some tips on finding the best cross country moving company, but first, a few basics.
What Constitutes a Long-Distance Move?
Generally, a long-distance move is any relocation of more than 400 miles. Obviously, a cross country move is going to be much farther than that, and the coordination and considerations for that move increase accordingly.
When Should I Start Packing for a Long-Distance Move?
Ideally, you should begin the planning process as soon as you know you will be moving. But generally, four to six weeks is usually enough to get everything together and ready for the big day.
Choosing the Right SF to NY Connection
How To Choose a Long-Distance Moving Company
There are a few essential steps that you can take to find the proper cross country moving provider for your needs.
- Get referrals. Nothing says more about a given company than the word of mouth they generate.
- Follow the rule of threes. Searching for that highest level of operating efficiency in a given market.
- Watch out for red flags. Negative reviews are a dead giveaway as to how good a company will work for you. Check the Better Business Bureau entry as well for additional information.
- Make sure the mover is properly licensed, bonded, and insured.
- Ask about professional accreditation and associations
- Make sure they have a verifiable, physical address.
How Much Should a Cross Country Move Cost?
Depending upon the size and scope of your move, the number of items, distance to the new location, etc., your move can be projected to cost anywhere between $5000 to $15000.
How Do I Know If a Moving Company is Reputable?
Certified, professional movers will have a US Dept Of Transportation (DOT) number, and it is strongly advised to only work with those who are registered with DOT.
Compiling Your NY to SF Checklist
Obviously, there are a number of factors to consider for any long-distance move. We have compiled a list of the best tips for securing a quality, experienced, and efficient long distance moving provider.
- Understand Your Options. Any long-distance move is a challenge, but a cross country move is the most daunting of all. There are simply far more details that go into this sort of relocation than most of us are prepared to deal with. Once you understand that you have options available to you to help in this endeavor, the process becomes a lot less stressful and hectic.
- Budget Accordingly. Once you have decided to hire a cross country moving provider, you will need to establish your budget for the move. Reputable moving companies will provide no obligation estimates for your project. It is recommended that you obtain at least three such estimates and try to go for neither the most expensive nor the least. A good provider can usually be found somewhere in the middle.
- Finding Good Cross Country Movers Near You. Ideally find a moving provider that is located near you, as this provides more than adequate communication, and if needed, additional on-site consultation as the time of the move draws closer. Avoid any company that will not visit your home in person to provide accurate estimates of your moving costs.
- Compare Your Estimates. Once you have talked to several providers, take the time to sit down and carefully go over each one. See who provides what services, and which providers offer the most “bang for the buck.” As mentioned earlier, don’t jump at the lowest bid, because a) you tend to get what you pay for, and b) if it sounds too good to be true, it invariably is. Look at all the service that are offered, such as packing, unpacking, custom crating, the handling of specialty of delicate items, especially those with strong sentimental value such as family heirlooms. The best estimates should have all of this broken down for you.
- Ask About a Move Coordinator. You do not want to do this job on your own. It is important to have a move coordinator assigned to you, someone who can be familiar with all aspects of your moving needs and guide you through the process, being available to answer all of your questions as well as handling the myriad of problems and difficulties that can and so often do come up as you approach moving day.
- Check The Movers’ Reviews. As we said earlier, word of mouth is usually far more dependable than any ad campaign. Read reviews, talk to folks that have used this company and get their thoughts. Eliminate any provider with only one or two star reviews, as that pretty much speaks for itself. Look for at least four stars (out of five) or better. Doing so means you run a far less chance of becoming another statistic.
- Give The Final Options One Last Look. Once you have narrowed down your options, check on a few things to make sure they are reputable, such as their certification with the Dept of Transportation (DOT). Every reputable provider will have a USDOT number assigned to them. Check and verify their insurance and bonding as well. Again, reputable companies will have no problem providing this information.
- Make Your Selection. Once you have narrowed everything down, once all the boxes are checked, it is time to make your selection and hire your long-distance moving provider.
In Conclusion
We do hope these recommendations are of service to you as you plan your upcoming long-distance move. If done correctly, this one-time daunting job may actually turn out to be an amazing and enjoyable adventure for you and your entire family.
