10 best long-distance moving companies in Fairhope, AL

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in a variety of ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns like how to move your car.

The right moving professionals can help put your mind at ease. We've made this guide to the top long-distance movers in Fairhope so you, your family, and your possessions get to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in many ways. Local movers only offer services within a specific geographic radius and usually 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 movers are more likely to charge based on time. However, some providers use a mix of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

Local Fairhope moving companies are typically more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies 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 Fairhope

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the choices can be overwhelming, making it challenging to choose the right one for your needs. Below, we offer some advice on how to pick a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Fairhope.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. To completely protect your belongings during the move, we suggest obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to supply a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Fairhope several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Make sure these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many 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 expenses. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise researching several choices to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what other customers say about particular long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and relatives.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to book a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that provide “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding prices. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your entire payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies that have a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to schedule your moving company well in advance of your move date. We suggest scheduling movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

It's also a good idea to make a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Alabama DMV.

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

Finally, make sure to get a full night’s sleep the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if some of your items are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers have to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but includes more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it has less protection. If you choose this option, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are damaged or lost.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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