10 best long-distance moving companies in Union City, GA

Long-distance or interstate moves present unique challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against challenges like how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Put your mind at ease by hiring the right movers for the job. That’s why we’ve compiled this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Union City to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in several ways. Local movers only operate within a specific geographic radius and often charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to such requests at all.

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

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, especially when moving between states. Selecting 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 Union City

Picking the right long-distance moving company in Union City requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. Below, we provide some advice on how to choose a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Union City.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two kinds of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can ask about these or similar options for long-distance moves inside one state. To fully protect your belongings during the move, we recommend purchasing personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a qualified mover. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote, 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. Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Union City and get itemized quotes. As you compare quotes, ensure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing options. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help with expenses. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend researching several choices to get 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 clients think about particular long-distance movers. 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 costlier to hire a moving company. Union City also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" 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 movers with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful tip for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough in advance. We suggest scheduling your move at least 90 days in advance, or even earlier if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we advise getting started a month beforehand. When it comes to fragile, sentimental, or valuable items, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

To stay organized, write a detailed list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as notifying the Georgia DMV of your new address.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a bag with items such as toiletries, extra clothes, and medications.

The night before moving day, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers are required to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable possessions (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection is pricier but includes more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it has less coverage. If you choose this option, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. This usually 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