10 best long-distance moving companies in McDonough, GA

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in important ways. When you're moving between states, you may come up against complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Choosing the right movers can help lessen your problems. We've made this list of the best long-distance movers in McDonough so you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are different in a few ways. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only offer services within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on time. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Local McDonough moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in McDonough

When you're hiring a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of options can be overwhelming. Below, we have compiled some tips on how to find a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in McDonough.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is inside one state, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to better protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers 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 requiring movers to give clients a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in McDonough several months before your move and get detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, ensure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing options to help you pay for your move. A moving or relocation loan can with expenses. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. We recommend looking into several options to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what other customers say about particular long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your friends and loved ones.
• 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 more expensive to book a mover. Since McDonough is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that give you “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding estimates. Additionally, legitimate movers won't request the full payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies with a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Scheduling your movers well before your move date is critical when preparing for a long-distance move. It's best if you plan your move at least 90 days in advance. This gives you plenty of time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need more specialized services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. When it comes to fragile, sentimental, or valuable items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

Create a list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move. The list should include things 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 suitcase with items such as toiletries, medications, and extra clothes.

The night before your big move, remember to get a good night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is vital since it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers have to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less protection. With this insurance, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy when you move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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