You may think that all movers are the same, and in many ways, they are. They may offer both residential and commercial moves, as well as packing or storage. But while all offer local moves, not all movers offer long-distance moves.
Check out the main differences of local vs. and long-distance moving.
Local Moves
Local movers handle relocations occurring within a town, city, metro area, or surrounding suburb. Called intrastate moves, these are relocations that take place within the same state and within a short distance —usually between 50 and 70 miles.
Local moves usually involve apartments, condos, single family homes and multi-family homes. They’re not too complex, just straightforward packing and transporting standard items. You could be going down the street or a town over. This qualifies as a local move.
Long-Distance Moves
These are called interstate moves, and they typically involve relocations that cross state lines. Long-distance movers bring special knowledge and training to the table in order to secure your belongings for a longer trip. Typically they have to obtain insurance that covers different states and policies.
Long-distance moves usually take place over a couple of days or more, while local moves take just a few hours to complete. Long-distance movers must secure the truck and all your belongings, as well as cars, boats, and motorcycles that you may be taking with you. Long-distance moves require a lot of attention to detail, logistics and move management to pull off.
Local Movers: Prices
Quotes for local moves are simple and straightforward, usually based on how many hours your move will take, how many movers they will need, and any special requirements that you have specified such as large or bulky items (pool tables, pianos, antiques, artwork).
Other factors impacting the cost of your move may include long carry fees, stair carry fees, and packing material costs. Many local movers offer packing services, whereby they pack and unpack all your belongings for an extra fee.
Long Distance Movers: Prices
Long-distance movers take the following factors into consideration when they give you an estimate:
- How much stuff you have
- How many movers will be needed
- The size of the truck or trucks
- The price of gas for the round trip
- Specialty items such as pool tables, pianos, and vehicles
- Storage in transit (SIT), if necessary
- Additional liability and insurance coverage
Long-distance movers also usually offer packing services, which you may be wise to enlist their help for – they can ensure your belongings can go the distance safely with no shifting.
Considerations
There are many things that affect moving costs, regardless of whether you choose local or long-distance moving. You will pay more for peak seasons such as late spring and summer. Movers are more in demand and will charge a premium to accommodate their full schedule. The day of the week is important, too, especially when it comes to local moves.
The beginning and end of the month are more expensive because of the higher demand. These are typical transition times for lease and rent periods. Also, weekends are more expensive because everyone wants to move without having to take time off from work. If you can move mid-month or on a weekday, you will save yourself some cash, says Unpakt.
It All Starts With a Trusted Moving Company
You don’t get anywhere without trust, and that certainly applies to the moving company you choose. As long as you do your research and ultimately select a mover that not only offers both local or long-distance moves (depending on your needs) as well as reasonable prices and friendly service, you will be fine.
Contact Redefyne Moving and Storage
Redefyne Moving and Storage is a trusted relocation expert in Oregon. We offer all kinds of comprehensive services for you to choose from, such as local moves, long-distance moves, residential moves, commercial and office moves, packing and storage, and loading and unloading.
We would be happy to tell you more about the differences between our local and long-distance moves when you call us at 817-405-2890 or complete our form online. Backed by vast experience moving people just like you over short and long distances, you get peace of mind knowing we have you covered from start to finish.
