Moving states, cities or even neighborhoods, can be much more complex than one might instinctively expect. In some cases it can be one of the most stressful events in your life. And being uninformed or ill-prepared for the journey can really make the difference between smooth sailing and catastrophe.
Let us guide you through some of the laws, regulations, and typical “what-to-expects” with your type of move.
Though moving may seem like a fairly straight-forward situation there are actually “classifications” of moving. And knowing the difference can help you plan, price, and prepare more efficiently, effectively making your moving experience go off without a hitch.
Distinguishing Your Move:
If you are not going outside of a 50 mile radius your typically referred to as a LOCAL MOVE. In most local moves your packed, loaded, and unloaded with the company in many cases same-day, and can essentially be with your items throughout the process.
When moving locally you typically have more options as most moving companies offer local moves (even the international ones.) So the main factors for you are going to be pricing and availability.
If you’re staying IN-STATE but you are going to be moving more than 50 miles, you would be classified as an INTRASTATE MOVE. Fewer smaller moving companies can accommodate intrastate moves and it is important not to waste your time applying, this why knowing “how to move” is almost as important as knowing where you are moving!
Intrastate moves are a little more complicated and the cost will reflect that so knowing the average cost of moving is very important. Make sure you are doing your research and going with reputable movers in your area.
INTERSTATE MOVES are more complicated still as you will be moving across state lines. Anywhere within the United States in considered interstate.
Pricing:
LOCAL MOVES are typically billed by the hour. Labor and fuel costs are factored in and you pay for the size of the crew. The size of the crew will determine how quickly your move will be completed and ultimately can cut down on the cost if the job can be completed more quickly.
INTRASTATE MOVES can be billed differently. Depending on the distance the moving company will make the call on how to go about pricing your move. It will either be by weight or by hour and there will usually be extra fees due to the accommodation.
INTERSTATE MOVES factor in the weight, distance, and load size and depending on the distance can be a much more complicated. The price of moving across state lines will reflect that.
Compliance:
All moving companies are bound to specific regulations and guidelines they must follow. Some specialize and only have to follow a certain set of laws. Others offer a much broader range of options which opens them up to a more complex and strict set of rules.
If you’re using a “strictly-local” mover they are not required to register with the FMCSA. They are required to have a USDOT number and abide by state regulations. The USDOT number helps to maintain safety, compliance, and transparency. You can research your moving companies performance metrics by inputting there USDOT number into the federal database.
Depending on the area there are also many other licenses and compliance regulations that require moving companies to stay in business. The best moving companies will be able to provide all of the related documentation and educate you on what your move will require.
INTERSTATE MOVERS must follow a more comprehensive set of guidelines that extend from fuel to personnel. They are required to register with the FMSCA which is a federal entity that resides over creation and enforcement of regulations movers must follow. And they must provide documentation stating compliance status. By registering with the FMSCA your moving company is committing to a higher standard of care for your cherished belongings.
Moving is a complicated thing!
And overall the class of move you are in matters. Take the time to do your research and be informed. Knowing that your belongings are in safe hands will turn an extremely stressful experience into an enjoyable memory, and a story to tell.