10 best long-distance moving companies in Clarksville, IN

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

Hiring the right moving professionals can help relieve your issues. That’s why we’ve created this guide to the best long-distance movers in Clarksville to help you, your family, 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 a few ways. Local movers usually only operate within a certain geographic area. They'll usually charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to charge based on time, while long-distance movers more likely to charge based on the weight. Some moving providers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to determine their final cost, so it's important to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific location and potentially offer more affordable rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves is indispensable. 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 headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Clarksville

Picking the right long-distance mover in Clarksville requires research to make sure the company meets your needs and fits your budget. Here are some tips for finding a trustworthy long-distance moving company in Clarksville.

• 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. Even if your long-distance move is inside one state, ask about the options provided by your mover. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance coverage 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 mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to supply customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Clarksville several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Confirm that these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing options to help you pay for your move. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help with cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several choices allows you to pick 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 say about particular long-distance movers. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be challenging and more expensive to get a mover. Since Clarksville is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you cautious. Reliable movers generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment upfront. Avoid movers with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to reserve your moving company well in advance of your move date. We suggest scheduling your move at least three months beforehand, or even earlier if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

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

Write a list of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move. The list should include items such as updating your address with the Indiana DMV.

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

Finally, on the night before your move, make sure you get a good 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 money back for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but gives you more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it has less coverage. This option requires your movers to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy during your move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration