10 best long-distance moving companies in Gainesville, GA

There are a range of importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may have to deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Picking the right moving professionals can help relieve your worries. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home safely, we've created this list of the best long-distance movers in Gainesville.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are a few key differences to keep in mind. Local moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local movers more often set fees based on how long a job takes. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when calculating their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local Gainesville moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Choosing 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 Gainesville

Hiring the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices can be overwhelming. Below, we provide some tips on how to choose a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Gainesville.

• 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. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, asking about these or similar options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance choices carried by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance coverage in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to provide a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Gainesville several months before your move and get detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, ensure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing options. 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 expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several options allows you to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about particular long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. You should also ask neighbors and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and costlier to book a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that provide “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding estimates. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your full payment before the move. Avoid moving companies with an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Hiring your movers well before your move date is essential when getting ready for a long-distance move. We suggest planning your move at least three months beforehand, or possibly earlier if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You might choose to keep certain sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Create a list of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move. The list should include tasks 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 putting together a bag with items such as toiletries, extra clothes, and medications.

The night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves because it'll pay you back if any of your possessions are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection costs more, it offers greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it has reduced coverage. With this plan, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover 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