Anyone planning a move faces an early but important choice: Should you hire local movers or a long distance moving company? Picking the right type of mover shapes your entire experience, from how much help you get to how smooth the transition feels. It’s normal to feel apprehensive, especially since for most people and families, a long distance move is a big change. How do you make sure you’re getting the exact right options for what you need?
At National Van Lines, we’ve specialized in long distance moving for nearly a century, which gives us a clear view of how these services compare. By the end of this guide, you’ll understand the key differences, what to expect from long distance moving companies, and how to decide which option fits your move.
What Is a Local Moving Company?
Local movers typically handle relocations within about 50 miles of your current home that are also within the same state. Their services are designed for short distances and often include:
- Smaller crews and trucks that can easily navigate city streets
- Flexible scheduling, sometimes with short notice
- Basic loading and unloading without the need for complex logistics
This option is best suited for people who are:
- Moving from one apartment to another across town
- Downsizing into a condo or smaller home nearby
- Shifting items into a local storage unit
Because the distance is short, local movers may charge by the hour rather than by weight or volume. That makes them affordable for quick, simple jobs. But this model can become less practical if the move grows in size or distance.
What Can You Expect From a Long Distance Moving Company?
Long distance moving companies are built for relocations that go beyond city or state lines. They bring a different level of planning, coordination, and resources. When you hire one, here’s what you can typically expect:
- Full-service logistics: Coordinated pick-up, transport, and delivery across states or even cross-country.
- Large trucks and fleets: Vehicles designed to carry entire households safely over long distances.
- Specialized crews: Movers trained to handle bulky furniture, delicate antiques, or specialty items like treadmills and artwork.
- Packing services: Options to have your items professionally packed for maximum protection.
- Storage solutions: Secure facilities if you need to hold belongings before your new home is ready.
- Valuation coverage: Protection plans that safeguard your belongings during the journey.
Long distance moving companies have the expertise and resources to handle relocations that go far beyond city limits. Their systems are built around timelines, checkpoints, and consistent standards across locations, which is something local movers usually can’t offer.
How Do You Decide What the Right Option Is?
For many families, the choice isn’t instantly clear. Let’s break it down by the top four factors that matter most:
1. How far are you moving?
If you’re moving to another state or across the country, local movers won’t have the licenses or network to make it happen. Long distance moving companies are federally authorized for interstate transport, which makes them your go-to choice.
2. How much stuff are you moving?
Moving just a few pieces of furniture across town is one thing. Relocating a four-bedroom home with fragile heirlooms and bulky appliances is another. Long distance movers bring the manpower, tools, and trucks to manage larger and more complex shipments safely.
3. What kind of moving services do you need?
Do you need help packing? Do you need storage while waiting on your new home? Do you have high-value items that require extra care? Long distance moving companies usually offer these services as part of their standard menu. Local movers may not have the same range.
4. What’s your budget range for your move?
Local movers may look less expensive upfront, but they typically bill hourly. If traffic, loading, or delays stretch the timeline, costs can rise. Long distance movers often calculate by weight, mileage, or service level, which gives you a clearer estimate. The important thing is to ask questions about what’s included so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
Why Might a Long Distance Moving Company Be the Better Choice?
Even if your relocation isn’t across the country, there are times when choosing a long distance moving company makes sense. Here’s why:
- National standards: These companies operate under regulations that provide consistency and accountability.
- Broader resources: A nationwide fleet and trained staff give them the ability to tackle bigger challenges.
- Flexibility: They can adapt to complex situations like staggered move-in dates, temporary storage needs, or specialty packing.
- Reduced stress: With more support at every step, you spend less time worrying about details.
Think of it this way: local movers are like calling in a small crew for a neighborhood project. Long distance movers are like hiring a full team that comes with a plan, a timeline, and the equipment to handle almost anything.
The expertise that comes with long distance moving often translates into a smoother, more reliable relocation overall.
What Mistakes Should You Avoid When Choosing Between Local and Long Distance Movers?
Families often make decisions too quickly, and it can backfire. Here are a few pitfalls to watch for:
- Basing your choice only on cost: Cheaper doesn’t always mean better, especially if it leaves you with hidden fees or poor service.
- Not checking for licenses and credentials: Long distance moving companies must have federal authority. If a mover can’t show it, that’s a red flag.
- Overlooking services you’ll actually need: Skipping packing or storage might save money now, but could cause stress later.
- Not reading reviews carefully: Pay attention to patterns in customer reviews — they often reveal whether a company consistently delivers on promises.
Avoiding these mistakes helps ensure you pick the service that truly matches your situation.
What’s the Bottom Line on Choosing the Right Fit?
Local and long distance moving companies both play important roles in the industry. Local movers shine for shorter, smaller relocations. Long distance moving companies bring the scale, services, and accountability you need when the complexity increases.
These two types of movers have coexisted for decades, each serving families in different ways. What matters most is understanding the differences clearly, so you can make the best choice for your home, budget, and timeline. Understanding your options today helps you plan with that much more confidence and ease for your upcoming move.
You just learned about the key differences between local moving companies and long distance movers, and you may have even decided that a long distance mover might be right for your upcoming move. Curious to know what the process will look like from start to finish? Get the facts with our ultimate checklist to moving to another state!
