8 best long-distance moving companies in Enterprise, AL

Long-distance or interstate moves include their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may have to deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns like how to move your car.

Selecting the right moving professionals can help relieve your problems. We've compiled this guide to the best long-distance movers in Enterprise so you, your family, and your possessions make it to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are several key differences to keep in mind. Local movers only work within a specific geographic radius and often charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such requests at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to charge based on time. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when establishing their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

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 city and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves is invaluable. These companies 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 Enterprise

Picking the right long-distance mover in Enterprise requires research to make sure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. To help you navigate the process of finding a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Enterprise, we've compiled some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, asking about these or similar options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance coverage offered by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers provide a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start asking for quotes several months before your move. Get itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Enterprise. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing plans. A moving or relocation loan can cover expenses. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We recommend researching several choices to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what other clients have said about certain long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. You should also ask friends and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and costlier to get a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you wary. Additionally, reliable moving companies shouldn’t demand the full payment upfront. Avoid moving companies that have an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to hire your moving company well in advance of your move date. We advise booking movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need more specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we recommend starting a month beforehand. When it comes to valuable, fragile, or sentimental belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Put together a list of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move. The list should include things such as updating your address with the Alabama DMV.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days, such as extra clothes, medications, and toiletries.

The night before your move, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves because it'll reimburse you if any of your items are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it gives less coverage. With this option, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged items.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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