10 best long-distance moving companies in West Memphis, AR

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in many ways. When you're moving long-distance, you may have to deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Ease your worries by picking the best movers for the job. We've put together this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in West Memphis so you, your loved ones, and your possessions make it to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

Local movers are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance movers more likely to set fees based on the weight. Some moving companies, however, may use a combination of time and weight to determine their rates, so it's important to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Local West Memphis moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. These companies are more likely to have the relevant 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 West Memphis

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options may be overwhelming, making it difficult to choose the right one for you. To help you navigate the process of picking a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in West Memphis, we've collected some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, inquiring about these or similar insurance options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance options offered by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance plans in more detail 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 qualified company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to provide clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in West Memphis several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing options as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can pay for some of the expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple loans to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about particular long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable 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 for moves. This can make it harder and more expensive to hire a moving company. Since West Memphis is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that give you “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding prices. Additionally, legitimate moving companies shouldn’t demand the full payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies 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

Hiring your movers well before your move date is extremely important when preparing for a long-distance move. It's best if you schedule your move at least three months in advance. This gives you plenty of time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Write 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 essentials for the first few days, such as medications, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and extra clothes.

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is vital, as it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain possessions that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection is more expensive but includes better 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 damaged or lost.

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