10 best long-distance moving companies in Smyrna, GA

There are several importantfactors that distinguish 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 complicated logistics and higher costs.

Alleviate your concerns by selecting the best movers for the job. That’s why we’ve created this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Smyrna to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only offer local moves. Local movers often only offer services within a certain geographic radius. They'll usually charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically 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 calculate their final cost, so it's important to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

Local Smyrna moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance movers can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Smyrna

Finding the right long-distance mover in Smyrna requires research to make sure the company meets your needs and fits your budget. See the list below for some recommendations on choosing a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Smyrna.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. In addition to the insurance choices provided by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance coverage in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to supply a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We recommend looking for quotes several months before your move. Contact several long-distance moving providers in Smyrna and get detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies have financing options. A moving or relocation loan can help cover expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare several choices to make sure you select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others have said about specific long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. You should also ask friends and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to get and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Because there are so many college students living in Smyrna, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Additionally, reliable movers won't demand the full payment before the move. Steer clear of movers with 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 useful piece of advice for long-distance moves is to secure your movers far enough in advance. We advise booking movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as plants 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 both before and after your move. The list should include things such as updating your address with the Georgia DMV.

Put together a bag with necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, toothbrushes, and medicine.

The night before your big move, don't forget to get a good night's sleep.

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.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain possessions that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection is more expensive but gives you better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it has less coverage. This insurance requires your moving company to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings lost or damaged during the move.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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