10 best long-distance moving companies in Auburn, AL

There are several importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may come up against complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns like how to move your car.

The right moving professionals can help alleviate your issues. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home safely, we've created this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Auburn.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in several ways. Local movers generally provide moving services within a designated geographic radius. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies are more likely to charge based on time. Certain moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when establishing their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Auburn

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices can feel overwhelming, making it difficult to hire the right one for you. Here are some tips for finding a legitimate, reliable long-distance moving company in Auburn.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance choices offered by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to supply clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Start seeking out quotes several months ahead of your move. Reach out to multiple long-distance moving providers in Auburn and ask for detailed cost breakdowns. Confirm that these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can pay for some of the cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise researching several choices to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what others say about particular long-distance movers. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be challenging and more expensive to get a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Auburn, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your full payment before the move. Avoid movers that have a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice for long-distance moves is to reserve your movers far enough ahead of time. It's best if you schedule your move at least 90 days beforehand. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You probably have fragile, valuable, or sentimental belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, write a detailed list of all the necessary tasks before and after your move, such as notifying the Alabama DMV of your new address.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a suitcase with items such as toiletries, medications, and extra clothes.

The night before your big move, remember to get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll pay you back if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers must have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it has reduced coverage. With this plan, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged possessions.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy after you move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

Alabama Division of Motor Vehicles U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration