What’s the Real Concern?
Families and businesses planning long distance moves in 2025 are facing uncertainty. From major storms to the ongoing federal shutdown, conditions can shift overnight. Severe weather and federal service slowdowns have already delayed thousands of shipments across the U.S., raising a question worth asking before your move: How will your moving company handle a delay that’s out of everyone’s control?
At National Van Lines, we believe the best way to protect your move is to ask informed questions. A professional mover should be transparent, adaptable, and ready with contingency plans long before a delay occurs.
Why Do Weather and Shutdown Delays Affect Long Distance Movers?
Extreme weather and government slowdowns can interrupt supply chains and transportation networks that movers depend on.
- Industry impacts: Reports from industry outlets indicate the 2025 shutdown has affected ports, highway routes, and inspection stations nationwide (source: Logistics Viewpoints).
- Weather volatility: Analysts note weather disruptions remain a top challenge for moving and logistics providers (source: LiveSwitch).
- Recent examples: Prolonged winter storms in the Midwest and Northeast earlier this year triggered route closures and schedule shifts. The best companies managed these events by communicating early and rerouting proactively.
What Questions Should You Ask Your Moving Company?
To make sure you’re covered before your move, ask these essential questions (and get the answers in writing):
How do you communicate delays caused by weather or federal events?
Look for multi-channel updates (call, text, and email), named points of contact, and stated update intervals.
Do you provide flexible delivery windows or rescheduling support?
Ask about no-fee rescheduling thresholds during declared emergencies and how delivery spreads are recalculated.
Is your company registered with the FMCSA for interstate moves?
Confirm the mover’s USDOT and MC numbers and active operating authority with the FMCSA.
What happens if storage or housing is needed during a delay?
Clarify short-term storage options, daily rates, and how access is handled if delivery must be postponed.
Who will contact me if something changes mid-route?
Request a named dispatcher or move coordinator and after-hours escalation procedures.
For added peace of mind, review independent buying guides that emphasize transparency and written commitments.
How Does National Van Lines Prepare for the Unexpected?
Experience and accountability matter most when conditions change. With nearly 100 years of service, National Van Lines uses a mix of data tools and human expertise to keep moves safe and on schedule. Predictive routing, live dispatch alerts, and flexible scheduling help us minimize disruptions when storms or shutdowns occur.
For reference, Supermove’s 2025 industry report highlights that adaptability is one of the most critical success factors for today’s professional movers.
You can learn more about our long distance moving services or explore our moving guide for tips on preparing your family or business for unpredictable conditions.
What’s the Takeaway?
Reliable movers do more than deliver your belongings—they keep you informed and supported when plans change. Whether you choose National Van Lines or another reputable company, make sure your mover has clear communication practices, active federal registration, and a proven record of handling delays responsibly.
Asking the right questions before your move can save time, stress, and uncertainty later.
