10 best long-distance moving companies in Brookhaven, GA

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in several ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges such as how to move your car.

The right moving company can help ease your concerns. We've put together this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Brookhaven so you, your loved ones, and your possessions arrive 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 only work within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to such jobs at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to charge based on how long a job takes. Keep in mind that certain movers might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Local Brookhaven moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Brookhaven

Finding the right long-distance mover in Brookhaven requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. See the list below for some tips on picking a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Brookhaven.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for 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 that don't cross state lines. In addition to the insurance choices carried by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers provide a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We suggest looking for quotes several months ahead of your move. Contact several long-distance moving providers in Brookhaven and ask for itemized cost breakdowns. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing options to help you afford your move. A moving or relocation loan can help with cost. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several options allows you to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what others have said about particular long-distance movers. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and relatives.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Since Brookhaven is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that offer “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding quotes. Additionally, trustworthy moving companies won't ask for the full payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies that have a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful tip for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough in advance. It's best if you book your move at least three months beforehand. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we advise getting started a month beforehand. You might prefer to have certain items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as notifying the Georgia DMV of your new address.

Pack essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as toiletries, medications, and extra clothes.

The night before moving day, remember to get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is a must for long-distance moves. It'll reimburse you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers are required to 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 moving companies might not cover belongings that are very expensive (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 for free, it has less protection. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are damaged or lost.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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