10 best long-distance moving companies in Athens, GA

Long-distance or interstate moves bring their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns like how to move your car.

Hiring the right moving professionals can help alleviate your concerns. We've compiled this list of the leading long-distance movers in Athens so you, your family, and your belongings arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only assist with local moves. Local moving companies only operate within a specific geographic area and frequently charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to these requests at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to charge based on how long a job takes. Certain moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when setting their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local Athens moving companies are typically more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when moving between states. Long-distance moving 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 headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Athens

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices may be overwhelming, making it challenging to hire the right one for your move. Below, we have compiled some recommendations on how to pick a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Athens.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or other options. 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 options in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Athens several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help cover expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple options to make sure you find 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 previous customers say about particular long-distance moving companies. You should also ask friends and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to get and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Because there are so many college students living in Athens, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that give you “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding estimates. Additionally, reputable moving companies won't demand the full payment before the move. Avoid movers with an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A good piece of advice for long-distance moves is to reserve your movers far enough in advance. We advise scheduling movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we suggest starting a month in advance. You might prefer to keep certain fragile, sentimental, or valuable items, 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 both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Georgia DMV.

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

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 because it'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers must offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less protection. With this insurance, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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