10 best long-distance moving companies in Pelham, AL

Long-distance or interstate moves present unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against challenges such as how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

The right moving company can help put your mind at ease. We've created this list of the top long-distance movers in Pelham so you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive 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 be aware of. Local moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers commonly charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers commonly charge based on the time required for your move. Certain moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when setting their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer less expensive rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance moving 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 headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Pelham

When you're selecting a long-distance moving company, the wide range of options may feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for picking a legitimate long-distance mover in Pelham.

• 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. Even if your long-distance move is inside one state, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. To better protect your possessions during the move, we suggest obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Start collecting estimates several months ahead of your move. Get in touch with several long-distance moving providers in Pelham and request detailed cost breakdowns. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong choice to help pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We advise looking into several loans to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what others have said about specific long-distance movers. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means movers may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Pelham also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you wary. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment before the move. If a mover has a long history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your moving company well before your move date is extremely important for a successful long-distance move. We advise hiring movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. When it comes to valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Creating a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Alabama DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

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

Finally, on the night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers have to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide money back 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. Full Value Protection is pricier but includes greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it has less coverage. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy after you 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