10 best long-distance moving companies in Hinesville, GA

Long-distance or interstate moves bring unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against concerns like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

The right moving company can help lessen your concerns. That’s why we’ve put together this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Hinesville to help you, your family, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only offer local moves. Local movers typically only operate within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on time. Some movers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to set their final cost, so it's necessary to check your provider's pricing structure.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when it comes to moving from one state to another. Using a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Hinesville

Hiring the right long-distance mover is important, and the options can feel overwhelming. Below, we offer some guidance on how to pick a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Hinesville.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, look into the options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance choices offered by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is taking care of your move. 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: Contact several long-distance movers in Hinesville several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. 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: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can help with expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend researching several choices to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what previous customers think about certain long-distance moving companies. You should also ask neighbors and loved ones 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 between May and September.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Reliable moving companies generally won't request your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies with a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Booking your movers well before your move date is key for a successful long-distance move. We recommend scheduling your move at least three months ahead of time, or even earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of all the necessary tasks both before and after your move, such as notifying the Georgia DMV of your new address.

Pack a bag with necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as medicine, toiletries, 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. It'll reimburse you if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

All interstate movers are required to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection costs more but provides more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it gives less protection. If you choose this option, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy 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