10 best long-distance moving companies in Tuscaloosa, AL

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in a variety of ways. When you're moving between states, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Choosing the right movers can help ease your issues. That’s why we’ve put together this overview of the best long-distance movers in Tuscaloosa to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies differ in a few ways. Local moving companies only work within a specific geographic radius and frequently charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to these jobs at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge by weight, while local movers more often set fees based on time. However, some providers use a combination of time and weight to calculate their rates, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when moving between states. Hiring a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Tuscaloosa

Picking the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices can be overwhelming. Here are some tips for finding a reliable long-distance mover in Tuscaloosa.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can ask about these or other insurance options for long-distance moves inside one state. In addition to the insurance coverage carried by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance plans in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. Reach out to multiple long-distance moving providers in Tuscaloosa and ask for itemized quotes. Confirm that these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing plans to help you afford your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several choices allows you to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what previous clients have said about specific long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Friends and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, 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: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Additionally, legitimate movers shouldn’t demand the full payment upfront. Avoid moving companies with 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

Reserving your moving company well before your move date is extremely important for a successful long-distance move. We suggest scheduling movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. You probably have sentimental, fragile, or valuable belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, prepare a detailed list of all the necessary tasks before and after your move, such as notifying the Alabama DMV of your new address.

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

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is vital since 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. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable items (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. While Full Value Protection is pricier, it provides greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less coverage. With this plan, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost 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, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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