10 best long-distance moving companies in Suwanee, GA

There are a range of factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

Choosing the right movers can help lessen your challenges. We've compiled this list of the top long-distance movers in Suwanee so you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

Local moving companies are also more likely to charge based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight. Keep in mind that certain movers might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Local Suwanee moving companies are generally more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and experience, especially when moving between states. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Suwanee

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in Suwanee requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. See the list below for some tips on picking a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Suwanee.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their customers: 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 coverage provided by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to provide a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months in advance to ensure you have plenty of time to plan your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to get itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Suwanee. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing options to help you afford your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several options allows you to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what previous clients say about particular long-distance moving companies. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be difficult and costlier to book a moving company. Since Suwanee is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that provide “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding estimates. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your entire payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies that have a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A good tip for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough in advance. To ensure a smooth move, find your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and possibly even more if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. When it comes to fragile, valuable, or sentimental items, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Putting together a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both 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.

Put together essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as medications, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and extra clothes.

The night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection is more expensive but provides greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it has less protection. If you choose this option, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are lost or damaged.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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