10 best long-distance moving companies in Prattville, AL

There are many importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move your car.

Lessen your problems by picking the best moving professionals for the job. We've made this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Prattville so you, your family, and your possessions 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 many key differences to consider. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only offer services within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Local movers are also more likely to charge based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. Some moving companies, however, may use a mix of time and weight to set their final cost, so it's key to check your provider's pricing structure.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when it comes to moving between states. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the right 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 Prattville

When you're picking a long-distance mover, the wide range of choices can feel overwhelming. Below, we provide some recommendations on how to find a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Prattville.

• 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. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, look into the options provided by your mover. To better protect your belongings during the move, we recommend obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to supply a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We advise asking for quotes several months ahead of your move. Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Prattville and ask for itemized cost breakdowns. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing plans to help you pay for your move. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help cover expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several choices allows you to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others think about certain long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and family 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 hire a moving company. Prattville also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your full payment before the move. If a mover has a long history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

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

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we suggest starting a month ahead of time. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make 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.

Pack a suitcase with essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, extra clothes, and medicine.

The night before your big move, remember to get a good night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll provide reimbursement if any of your possessions are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain possessions that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. While Full Value Protection is more expensive, it offers more coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it has reduced coverage. With this plan, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

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