10 best long-distance moving companies in Jonesboro, AR

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in many ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about challenges like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Selecting the right movers can help lessen your concerns. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home without incident, we've created this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Jonesboro.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies differ in many ways. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic radius. They'll usually charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

Local moving companies 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. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might use both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when it comes to moving between states. Choosing a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Jonesboro

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options may be overwhelming, making it difficult to select the right one for you. Below, we offer some advice on how to pick a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Jonesboro.

• 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. You can look into these or other insurance options for long-distance moves inside one state. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to completely protect your possessions. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance coverage 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 qualified company. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers supply a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Jonesboro several months before your move and get detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, ensure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing plans to help you afford your move. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help with expenses. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several options allows you to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what previous customers say about specific long-distance moving companies. You should also ask neighbors and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be challenging and costlier to get a moving company. Jonesboro also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your entire 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

Hiring your movers well before your move date is key when getting ready for a long-distance move. We recommend planning your move at least 90 days ahead of time, or possibly earlier if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You probably have sentimental, fragile, or valuable belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Create a list of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move. The list should include things such as updating your address with the Arkansas DMV.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days, such as medications, toiletries, and extra clothes.

The night before moving day, don't forget to get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if some of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Although Full Value Protection is more expensive, it offers greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it gives you reduced coverage. With this plan, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration