If you’re relocating, chances are you’re stumbling across a whole bunch of unfamiliar lingo. Bills of lading? Binding estimates? It feels like you’re constantly juggling jargon. And on that note, what’s the difference between a local and long-distance moving company?
There’s no singular definition; it changes on a company-by-company basis. However, generally speaking, a local move is within one province or even in the same city. Long-distance movers operate across multiple provinces. But there’s more to it than just that. So here we’ll cover the differences between local and long-distance moving services.
Key Differences Between Local and Long-Distance Moving Companies
Coverage Area
Not every moving company offers long-distance moves. Why? Because larger coverage areas demand more resources. Without proper staffing and company infrastructure, many businesses can’t facilitate relocations across such large distances. Most companies have a geographical specialty. For instance, Greater Toronto Area or Calgary, British Columbia or Alberta. If you’re from Calgary and looking to relocate to another province, search around for long-distance movers in Calgary and you should find what you’re looking for.
The easiest way to check coverage areas is on the company’s website. But if you’re still unsure, pick up the phone and inquire directly.
Scheduling and Duration
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It’s no secret that long-distance moves require more rigorous scheduling and take longer. Rather than a quick 45-minute journey from your home or self storage to your new home, you’re looking at hours, if not days, in transit.
For instance, driving from Toronto to Vancouver takes 40 hours. According to Canadian legislation, drivers of commercial vehicles are not allowed to drive for more than 13 hours. Therefore, taking into consideration the driver’s accommodations and rest stops along the way, this trip would take at least four days to complete.
Of course, that’s without incorporating added considerations like the time difference between the two cities. It’s easy to see how scheduling becomes more complex for long-distance moves.
Rules and Compliance
After the deregulation of Canadian moving companies in the 1980s, there isn’t too much difference between local and long-distance compliance when relocating domestically. However, one thing to keep in mind is the variation in conditions of carriage on a province-by-province basis.
Planning an inter-province move? Expect to sign a few extra documents here and there. Although a reliable moving company will help you navigate the procedure, it’s beneficial to know the facts beforehand. Travelling internationally? The strictness increases tenfold. Be prepared for custom declarations and more.
Cost Factors
It’s no surprise that long-distance moves cost more than local services. Just consider the difference in working hours required, plus the additional accommodation, food, fuel, paperwork and insurance costs. While plenty of businesses are up for the job, there’s no denying that it takes more brain power and time on the clock.
When hiring any moving company, the best approach is to get multiple quotes and compare all reviews. Choose the one that best suits your needs after analyzing your findings. Just don’t be too surprised if moving to Halifax from Montreal costs more than moving to Quebec City for a buddy.
Range of Services Offered
Services always vary between companies and packages. For instance, you could invest in basic transportation or a full-service package. A full service might include extras like disassembling furniture, cleaning and temporary storage provisions. These are all good questions to ask.
Of course, long-distance moves have even more services to incorporate. For instance, paperwork organization and bonus insurance options. Speak to your chosen company to request the most accurate inclusion breakdown.
Coordination and Logistics
There is inevitably a lot of communication between customers and moving companies. It could be parking, box labelling or even where to find the fire alarm; coordination and logistics must be in sync.
With long-distance moves, this becomes even more demanding. The company keeps the customer informed about the whereabouts of all their valuables throughout transit. And the stakes are even higher for possible delays, as it risks leaving someone with an unfurnished house for longer than expected.
Local versus long-distance moving services are worlds apart. There’s a huge difference between moving to a new address in the same city and relocating from eastern to western Canada. Expect higher costs, different logistics and timeframes and even new rules and regulations to consider.
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