4 best long-distance moving companies in Valdosta, GA

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in important ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges like how to move your car.

Lessen your issues by picking the best movers for the job. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the best long-distance movers in Valdosta to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are distinct in many ways. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only offer services within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on the weight of your items, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on time. Some moving companies, however, may use a mix of time and weight to calculate their rates, so it's key to check your provider's pricing structure.

Local Valdosta moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance movers 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 Valdosta

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices may feel overwhelming, making it challenging to pick the right one for you. See the list below for some guidance on choosing a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Valdosta.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, inquiring about these or similar insurance options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance choices carried by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have plenty of time to plan your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to request itemized cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Valdosta. Ensure these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing plans. A moving or relocation loan can help pay for some of the cost. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We suggest researching several loans to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what others say about specific long-distance movers. Neighbors and family 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 get a moving company. Since Valdosta is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you suspicious. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your full payment before the move. If a moving company has a long history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Scheduling your movers far enough ahead of time is key for a successful long-distance move. We advise booking your move at least three months in advance, or even earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we recommend starting a month in advance. When it comes to sentimental, fragile, or valuable belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of all the necessary tasks 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 putting together a suitcase with items such as extra clothes, medications, and toiletries.

The night before your big move, don't forget to 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.

All interstate movers are required to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. While Full Value Protection costs more, it offers better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it has less coverage. This option requires your moving company to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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