10 best long-distance moving companies in Woodstock, GA

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

The right moving professionals can help put your mind at ease. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings get to your new home safely, we've put together this list of the leading long-distance movers in Woodstock.

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 consider. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only operate within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Local movers are also more likely to charge based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might use both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Local Woodstock moving companies are generally more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Woodstock

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in Woodstock requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. Here are some tips for picking a legitimate long-distance mover in Woodstock.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar options for long-distance moves inside one state. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. Request itemized quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Woodstock. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing plans to help you afford your move. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several loans allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what others think about certain long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means movers may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Woodstock also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that offer “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding prices. Trustworthy moving companies generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment before the move. If a mover has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A great tip for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough ahead of time. We recommend scheduling your move at least three months in advance, or even earlier if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

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

Making a checklist of all the things 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 of your move, such as extra clothes, medications, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some movers might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but gives you more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it has less coverage. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings 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 after 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