10 best long-distance moving companies in Milton, GA

There are many factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with concerns such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

The right moving company can help put your mind at ease. We've compiled this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Milton so you, your family, and your possessions make it to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to charge based on how long a job takes. However, some providers use a combination of time and weight to calculate their prices, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

Local Milton moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when relocating to another state. 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 Milton

When you're selecting a long-distance mover, the wide variety of choices can be overwhelming. See the list below for some advice on choosing a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Milton.

• 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. You can look into these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves within the same state. To fully protect your possessions during the move, we recommend getting your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, 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 a sign that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, 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 moving companies in Milton several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing options to help you afford your move. A moving or relocation loan can help pay for some of the cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We advise researching several options to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what others have said about specific long-distance movers. Also, ask for 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 for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to hire a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that offer “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding prices. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your full payment upfront. Avoid moving companies that have an extensive 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

Finding your movers far enough ahead of time is key when planning a long-distance move. We recommend booking your move at least three months ahead of time, or even earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we advise getting started a month beforehand. You probably have valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Making a checklist of all the things that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Georgia DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Pack essentials for the first few days of your move, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, extra clothes, and medications.

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. Some movers may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it gives less coverage. This insurance requires your movers to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items lost or damaged during the move.

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

Sources

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