10 best long-distance moving companies in Searcy, AR

There are a range of importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns like how to move your car.

Ease your concerns by hiring the best movers for the job. We've compiled this overview of the best long-distance movers in Searcy so you, your loved ones, and your possessions get to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies differ in a few ways. Local moving companies only operate within a specific geographic radius and often charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such requests at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies often set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers commonly charge based on the time needed for your move. Some movers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to calculate their final cost, so it's key to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific city and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves is indispensable. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Searcy

Picking the right long-distance moving company in Searcy requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. See the list below for some advice on picking a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Searcy.

• 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 look into these or other options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. In addition to the insurance choices provided by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Searcy several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good option to help pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We suggest looking into several options to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what others think about specific long-distance moving companies. You should also ask neighbors and family for 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 to move. This can make it harder and costlier to book a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in Searcy, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you cautious. Reliable moving companies generally won't demand your complete payment upfront. If a mover has a long history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Finding your moving company far enough in advance is extremely important for a successful long-distance move. It's best if you plan your move at least 90 days beforehand. This gives you plenty of time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. You probably have valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

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

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

The night before your move, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers have to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it gives less protection. With this insurance, your moving company 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. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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