10 best long-distance moving companies in Columbus, IN

There are several factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move your car.

The right movers can help put your mind at ease. We've created this list of the leading long-distance movers in Columbus so you, your family, and your possessions get to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies differ in a few ways. Local movers typically only work within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

Local movers are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance movers more likely to set fees based on the weight. However, some movers use a combination of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when it comes to moving between states. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Columbus

Picking the right long-distance mover in Columbus requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. To help you navigate the process of choosing a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Columbus, we've collected some advice below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or other options. To fully protect your belongings during the move, we suggest getting personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a qualified mover. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Columbus several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We advise researching several options to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what previous customers have said about certain long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be difficult and costlier to hire a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Legitimate movers generally won't ask for your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of movers with a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Booking your moving company well before your move date is critical for a successful long-distance move. To ensure a smooth move, hire your movers no less than 90 days ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need more unique services, like piano or car moving.

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

Writing a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Indiana DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days, such as extra clothes, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and medicine.

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll give you money back if any of your possessions are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable possessions (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. Although Full Value Protection costs more, it offers more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less coverage. This insurance requires your moving company to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items damaged or lost during the move.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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