Moving a few states away is obviously harder than moving across town. Hiring a moving company to pack and transport everything will make your life so much easier. But you do need to think and act carefully when hiring an interstate moving company to ensure you know exactly what you're getting, what you're paying, and what policies you're signing on to. Here are four tips to follow when hiring long distance movers.

Ask What They Will Not Transport

Most moving companies won't transport things like prescription medication and household chemicals for safety reasons. But since interstate movers have to cross state lines and follow the regulations of several states, there may be longer lists of things they cannot and will not transport for you. These could be things like financial paperwork, plants, valuables, and so forth. Ask for a complete list of items the moving company will not transport so you can make alternative plans for these items ASAP.

Request a List of Fees

Sometimes when you get a moving quote for such a big, extensive move, the quote will just be for one part of the move -- like the packing and transport. If you read the fine print, you may find that there are other fees for items like packing supplies and for problems that may occur -- like traffic delays. When you get a quote, ask for it to be itemized so you can see exactly what fees may apply where. You'll have an easier time planning financially this way.

Buy Insurance

Some moving companies have a standard level of insurance they include with every move. However, you can purchase more thorough insurance to better protect yourself from a greater value of loss or damage. When you're moving a longer distance, there is a greater chance of something going wrong. So in most cases, it is worthwhile to pay a little more for the better insurance policy. If your moving company does not offer "upgraded" insurance, you may be able to purchase a plan through your homeowner's insurance provider.

Ask About Guaranteed Delivery

Depending on how far away you are moving, your moving company may have to switch drivers, take breaks, or re-route based on traffic patterns. All of these things can affect how long it takes them to arrive at your new place. They may plan on arriving on Saturday morning but not actually pull in until late evening. To get a better idea of when to expect them, don't ask when they plan to be there -- ask when they guarantee the delivery will be there. This way, you know the longest you'll be waiting for your things.