4 best long-distance moving companies in Albany, GA

Long-distance or interstate moves present unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may encounter higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Lessen your concerns by hiring the best moving professionals for the job. We've compiled this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Albany so you, your loved ones, and your possessions make it to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are several key differences to note. Local moving companies generally offer moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a significant fee to do so.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on time. Certain moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when calculating their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be more affordable), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when it comes to moving from one state to another. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Albany

Selecting the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options can be overwhelming. Below, we offer some advice on how to choose a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Albany.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. We also suggest getting your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to provide a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Albany several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of 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 strong choice to help pay for some of the cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several loans allows you to select 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 others think about particular long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be challenging and more expensive to get a mover. Albany also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your full payment before the move. Avoid moving companies with a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Finding your movers far enough ahead of time is key when preparing for a long-distance move. We recommend booking your move at least three months beforehand, or possibly earlier if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. You might prefer to keep certain valuable, sentimental, or fragile possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

It's also a good idea to make a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Georgia DMV.

Put together essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, extra clothes, and medications.

The night before moving day, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll pay you back if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers are required to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it gives you reduced coverage. With this option, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

Georgia Department of Revenue U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration