Are you moving a long distance but staying in the same state? This is what we refer to as an intrastate move. Intrastate moving is a unique category, distinct from both local and interstate moves. Morgan Deering, Sales Manager at our Denver Bailey's Moving and Storage location, had some thoughts to add on the efficacy of adding full-coverage valuation to longer-distance moves.
What is an Intrastate Move?
The first question we asked Morgan was to help define what exactly an intrastate move entails. He explained, “an intrastate move covers more than 50 miles within the same state. It's important to understand that distance, not just crossing state lines, defines this type of move.”
So, for example, a move from Denver, Colorado to Grand Junction, Colorado, is intrastate, while a move from New York City to Philadelphia is interstate, despite the latter being shorter.
Intrastate vs. Interstate Moves: Key Differences
While they sound similar, intrastate and interstate moves have significant differences:
- Location: Intrastate moves stay within a single state, while interstate moves cross state lines.
- Regulations: Intrastate moves are governed by state-level regulations, while interstate moves fall under Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) rules.
Calculating the Cost of an Intrastate Move
Intrastate moving companies typically calculate costs based on weight and distance. However, other factors can influence the final price:
- Terrain: Geographic features like mountains can affect fuel costs, staffing, and travel time, impacting the overall price.
- Home Size and Additional Services: The volume of your belongings and any extra services you request (like packing) will also factor into the cost.
- Estimator's Assessment: A trained estimator will conduct either an in-person or virtual walkthrough to assess your belongings and provide a written quote. This is crucial for understanding the specific costs involved in your move.
Expert Tip: Morgan highlighted how important it is to keep your moving company updated on how much you’ll be moving. “Some people will do an estimate and receive one price and then buy new furniture or sell some larger appliances,” Morgan explained. “Since we calculate moving costs by weight, this can have a big impact on price.”
The Intrastate Moving Process
Here's a breakdown of what you can expect when working with full-service intrastate moving companies:
- Estimator Walkthrough: The estimator will evaluate your belongings and provide a written estimate. This can be done in person or virtually. A written estimate is essential for transparency and understanding the costs.
- Loading, Unloading, and Transportation: The moving company will handle the loading of your belongings, their transportation to your new home, and the unloading process.
Valuation: Moving companies are required by law to offer valuation, which is not insurance but rather the company's assumed liability for your belongings. You'll typically have two options:
- Full-Value Protection: The mover is liable for the full replacement value of lost or damaged items (with an added cost).
- Released-Value Protection: This free option offers minimal coverage (60 cents per pound) and is not recommended for valuable items.
- Packing Services: Full-service movers offer packing services, which can be a huge time-saver and provide extra protection for your belongings.
- Storage: Some moving companies offer storage options, which can be useful if you need temporary or long-term storage during your move.
Intrastate Moving Specifics
- Mileage and Weight-Based Pricing: Intrastate moves often use a breakpoint matrix to calculate costs based on mileage and the weight of your belongings. As an example, the average three-bedroom, two-bathroom home weight is between 6,000 and 7,000 pounds.
- Time Frame: The duration of an intrastate move depends on the distance and location. For example, a typical intrastate move in Colorado might take 3-5 days (loading, travel, delivery). Discuss the estimated timeframe with your mover.
- Liability and Delivery Windows: While movers aren't responsible for "acts of God" (weather, natural disasters), they often provide compensation if they exceed the agreed-upon delivery window.
- Local Crews: Intrastate moves typically utilize local crews who handle the entire move from start to finish.
- Packing Standards: Even though you're not crossing state lines, your belongings will be packed with the same care as for long-distance moves, often including crating and specialized packing materials.
- Inventory Process: A detailed inventory of your belongings will be taken to ensure nothing is lost or damaged. Intrastate moves are generally priced based on the actual weight of the shipment.
- Estimates: Intrastate moves typically do not use binding estimates, as the final weight may vary.
- Overnight Stays: Your belongings typically won't be left overnight in a truck during an intrastate move, except in cases of temporary warehousing or at your final destination.
Choosing the Right Intrastate Moving Companies
Selecting reputable intrastate moving companies is crucial. Look for companies with strong customer service, a good reputation, and quality assurance practices. Bailey’s Moving and Storage has over 70 years of experience with intrastate moves, and our experts like Morgan are there to help you every step of the way.
“Intrastate moving requires careful planning and coordination. Understanding the specific details of this type of move, from pricing to packing standards, will help ensure a smooth and successful relocation,” Morgan says. “Communicate clearly with your chosen moving company to address any questions or concerns you may have.”
Click here to get started with an intrastate moving quote from Bailey’s Moving and Storage.
