Frequently Asked Questions : Long Distance Moves / Interstate Moving
Welcome to the American National Movers FAQ section. Here are the most frequent questions people ask when preparing for a long-distance move and considering interstate moving services:
More Questions From Our Customers
Is the deposit refundable?
Yes, American National Movers offers refunds to customers who cancel no later than 72 hours of their scheduled move date.
Are you a carrier or broker?
American National Movers operates as a carrier and a broker. Smaller moves generally get dispatched to carrier agents. Larger shipments or dedicated trucks get handled directly with American National Movers. Either way, American National Movers does not hire day laborers or subcontractors. Each crew member is trained and background checked prior to servicing any load.
How are costs calculated?
Your costs are calculated primarily based on the size and mileage of your shipment. In some cases the size of your move matters less and it's the mileage that's the main driving factor. In other cases, if you have a short distance out of state move but a large load, the volume matters more than the mileage.
Are there hidden fees or surprise charges?
If your quote is not binding, your estimate may or may not change. This is industry standard and a common practice in the industry. To avoid this, prioritize getting an accurate quote and giving an accurate inventory list. The more accurate your inventory the better, because this greatly reduces the risk of volume based overages.
How do I get a flat rate?
Flat rate quotes are obtainable after receiving your quote via email. Then you negotiate the flat rate via email or phone call. American National Movers may or may not charge a fee to bind your costs, also known as a binding estimate.
Is American National Movers a good company?
Yes, compared to many affordable long distance movers, American National Movers is reputable. However, like many other providers, complaints do exist, but the negative feedback is minimal. Across multiple platforms American National Movers averages a 4.8 star rating, which is very good compared to many national brands.
Why is a deposit required to reserve?
Collecting a deposit to reserve your move is industry standard and not a scam. This is common practice to reserve your truck, materials and crew. As long as the deposit amount is not more than 35-40%, a deposit payment is normal. Especially if it is refundable in the event a consumer cancels their move.
How long does it take for delivery?
Delivery is based on mileage and your transportation method. Shared loads can take anywhere between 5-18 days, which is industry standard. Dedicated trucks are much faster and are typically delivered within 2-4 days. For a more informed answer on delivery, please contact customer service at (800) 936-3086 and speak with a moving coordinator.
What's included in the service?
Loading, unloading, disassembly, reassembly and furniture packing is included in the service. American National Movers also provides premium packing, which includes packaging of linen, fragile items, and high end possessions.
How much does it cost for full packing services?
The cost for full service packing varies. Generally we charge about $400.00 per room. Sometimes more for highly fragile items such as fine art, pianos and sculptures.
I'm not sure of my move date. Is that OK?
When planning and interviewing movers, it's common not to know the exact target move date. That's why American National Movers allows you to book a tentative move date with free date change flexibility. This means you reserve for an approximate date, with the option to change it free of cost.
Do you offer storage?
American National Movers has storage facilities across the United States. As part of hiring this establishment, they offer 30 days free storage. After your first free month you will be billed a monthly rate based on the size of your load, ranging from $250-$500.
Where is American National Movers located?
American National Movers operates nationwide. However, their headquarters is in downtown Manhattan at 95 Wall Street, New York, NY 10005. This is where the bulk of administrative work gets handled.
How long is a quote good for, and when should I book?
Long distance moving costs are based on availability, so the earlier you book the better. If possible, try to avoid booking long distance movers last minute, or you'll struggle finding a mover with a competitive rate.
Do you offer loading and unloading only?
No. American National Movers is a full service moving company with an average cost of $4,500.00.
Why is it so expensive?
Moving between states carries large operational expenses such as fuel, labor, materials and driver compensation. On operational expenses alone, it costs movers thousands of dollars, ranging from $3,000 to $8,000 or more. This doesn't even cover the costs for customer service. As a result, professional moving companies have to charge higher rates to ensure efficiency.
What are the forms of payment?
American National Movers accepts certified funds, credit and debit card transactions, and cash as an accepted form of payment. The company also provides contracts and receipts as proof of payment.
Can American National Movers guarantee my delivery date?
Yes, for an added charge involving a dedicated truck, American National Movers can guarantee your delivery date. Dedicated trucks and guaranteed delivery dates are a rare and premium service. Expect average costs starting at $8,000 for this service.
Is American National Movers licensed and insured?
Yes, American National Movers is a licensed carrier and broker, authorized to perform interstate hauls and arrange for transportation of household goods.
What are fees I should be aware of?
Stairs, long carry fees, shuttle fees and additional items fees can add to the final total cost of your move.
What is a long carry fee?
Long carry fees involve movers charging a surcharge due to having to carry your furniture from your pick up location to the truck, or from the truck to your delivery address. The main reason for this charge is due to parking restrictions, storage moves, or apartment buildings. Long carrying furniture is hard labor and adds to the difficulty of the job. As a result, movers reserve the right to charge for it.
What is a shuttle fee?
Shuttle fees usually happen when a larger truck (typically a CDL semi) cannot park within a reasonable distance at your pick up or drop off location. Consequently, movers have to unload your inventory from the semi and load it back onto a smaller truck. This eliminates the access issue but adds more to your costs due to added labor and having to allocate a smaller van.