10 best long-distance moving companies in Phenix City, AL

Long-distance or interstate moves have their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues such as how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

Picking the right moving professionals can help lessen your problems. We've made this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Phenix City so you, your family, and your belongings make it 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 moving companies 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 set fees based on the weight. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when calculating their rates, 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 expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when it comes to moving from one state to another. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Phenix City

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options may feel overwhelming, making it difficult to hire the right one for your needs. Below, we provide some tips on how to find a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Phenix City.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or other options. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to completely protect your belongings. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance coverage 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 taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to provide customers with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in Phenix City several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies offer financing plans. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend looking into several loans to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others have said about certain long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to get and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Phenix City also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that provide “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding prices. Legitimate moving companies generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment upfront. Avoid movers that have an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

An important tip for long-distance moves is to secure your movers far enough ahead of time. It's best if you plan your move at least three months ahead of time. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we recommend getting started a month in advance. You might prefer to have certain items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving 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.

Put together essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as medications, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and extra clothes.

The night before moving day, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable items (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. Full Value Protection costs more but includes greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it has less protection. If you choose this plan, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are lost or damaged.

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