10 best long-distance moving companies in Sandy Springs, GA

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

Alleviate your issues by picking the right moving professionals for the job. We've made this overview of the best long-distance movers in Sandy Springs so you, your family, and your possessions make it to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

Long-distance movers 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 mix of time and weight to set their final cost, so it's key to check your provider's pricing structure.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer less expensive rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves is indispensable. Long-distance movers can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Sandy Springs

Hiring the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices may be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of finding a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Sandy Springs, we've collected some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is inside one state, inquire about the insurance options provided by your mover. To fully protect your possessions during the move, we suggest getting your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers provide customers with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: We advise looking for quotes several months before your move. Request itemized quotes from several long-distance movers in Sandy Springs. As you compare estimates, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong option to help pay for some of the cost. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare several options to make sure you choose the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what others have said about specific long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Because there are so many college students living in Sandy Springs, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your entire payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies that have an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key tip for long-distance moves is to find your movers far enough ahead of time. To ensure an easy move, book your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and potentially even more if you need more unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. You might prefer to keep certain valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Write a list of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move. The list should include things such as updating your address with the Georgia DMV.

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

Lastly, make sure to get enough rest the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers need to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some movers might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but includes more coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it provides less protection. If you choose this plan, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy when you move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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