10 best long-distance moving companies in Dalton, GA

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in severalimportant ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with concerns such as how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Hiring the right movers can help ease your problems. That’s why we’ve made this list of the best long-distance movers in Dalton to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are many key differences to keep in mind. Local moving companies only offer services within a specific geographic radius and frequently charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to these jobs at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes, while long-distance movers more likely to set fees based on the weight. Certain moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when setting their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific city and potentially offer less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves is invaluable. Hiring a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Dalton

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices can be overwhelming, making it challenging to select the right one for your needs. Here are some tips for finding a reliable long-distance mover in Dalton.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, inquiring about these or other options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance coverage offered by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: We recommend looking for quotes several months ahead of your move. Contact several long-distance moving providers in Dalton and ask for itemized quotes. Ensure these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies have financing plans. A moving or relocation loan can help with expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple choices to make sure you find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about specific long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. You should also ask neighbors and relatives for 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 to move. This can make it harder and costlier to book a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you suspicious. Reliable movers generally won't ask for your complete payment upfront. Avoid moving companies that have 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

A useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to book your moving company well before of your move date. We recommend booking movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need more specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. When it comes to valuable, fragile, or sentimental belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

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

Put together essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, medicine, and toothbrushes.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable possessions (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less protection. This plan requires your moving company to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings lost or damaged during the move.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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