Any move is stressful, especially a long distance one, and relocating to a place as remote as Alaska – it’s upwards of 2,300 miles away from the rest of the United States and 80% is inaccessible by road – is sure to cause a lot of frustration. Such a move must be meticulously planned in advance and the most important part of that planning is choosing the right long distance moving company. The right moving company can mean all the difference between your belongings arriving on time and intact or late and damaged so it’s imperative to do your due diligence to find the right long distance moving company for your upcoming move to or from Alaska.
What to Look for in Choosing the Right Long Distance Moving Company
When choosing the right long distance moving company there are a few things to consider:
Experience
It may seem obvious, but it can’t be stressed enough. Interstate moves will typically involve various state and federal regulations that must be followed, and Alaska is a special case considering it doesn’t border any US state. While not an international move, you and your belongings will likely have to travel through Canada before ending up at their destination and you don’t want to be stuck at the border because the moving company you chose has little experience in such matters. Choosing the right long distance moving company with experience for a more to Alaska may seem like a daunting task but using a trusted company with experience will help save you time, money, and even more stress down the line.
Techniques
Your belongings are important to you, and they should be to the moving company as well. The right long distance moving company should be one that understands size, angles, and weight and has experts who know the best methods of packing, boxes to use, and how to wrap and protect your property. After all, your possessions will be traveling pretty far and if they are not packed and secured properly there may be a few nasty surprises waiting for you when you unpack.
Reviews & BBB
When choosing the right long distance moving company you should check online to get a sense of their reputation. See what other people are saying – especially the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Stick with companies which are BBB accredited or, at the very least, have a very high rating.
Make sure they are Licensed and Insured
A company offering long distance moving services must be properly licensed an insured. You can check using the US Department of Transportation Federal Motor Car Carrier Safety Administration’s (FMCSA) website. Be sure to steer clear of any company not in FMCSA’s database.
Estimates
After narrowing down your search to a few companies, request an estimate from each and compare not only the cost but the process. Do they come to your home to get an in-person estimate? How professional are the estimators and are they answering all your questions? Paying extra for a company that seems to really care about you and your belongings is well worth it.
Plan Your Move With Golden North Van Lines
Whether you’re moving to or from Alaska, Golden North Van Lines has the expertise and experience to make your move as stress free as possible and have been doing so for over 30 years. When choosing the right long distance moving company, be sure to keep us in mind and contact us to receive a quote for your move!