5 best long-distance moving companies in Dothan, AL

Long-distance or interstate moves present their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with concerns like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Lessen your concerns by hiring the best moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best long-distance movers in Dothan to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only assist with local moves. Local movers generally provide moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

Local movers are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight. Keep in mind that some moving companies might use both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific location and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the relevant 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 Dothan

Picking the right long-distance mover in Dothan requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. See the list below for some advice on picking a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Dothan.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, inquiring about these or other insurance options is a good idea. To fully protect your belongings during the move, we recommend obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to supply clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: We advise seeking out quotes several months before your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to request detailed cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Dothan. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing plans to help you afford your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several loans allows you to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what previous customers have said about certain long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be challenging and more expensive to get a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your entire payment before the move. If a moving company has an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

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

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. When it comes to sentimental, valuable, or fragile items, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

To stay organized, prepare a detailed list of everything that needs to be done both 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 putting together a suitcase with items such as medicine, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and extra clothes.

The night before moving day, remember to get a good night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is key since it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it has less coverage. If you choose this plan, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. 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