10 best long-distance moving companies in Covington, KY

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

The right moving professionals can help put your mind at ease. We've created this guide to the best long-distance movers in Covington so you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only offer local moves. Local movers only work 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.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically set fees based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies more often charge based on how long a job takes. Certain moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when calculating their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local Covington moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when relocating to another state. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Covington

Selecting the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices can be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of picking a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Covington, we've put together some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, asking about these or similar options is a good idea. We also suggest getting your own moving insurance to completely protect your belongings. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Start getting quotes several months before your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to ask for detailed quotes from several long-distance movers in Covington. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing options to help you afford your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare a few loans to make sure you find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what other clients say about certain long-distance movers. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to get and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Because there are so many college students living in Covington, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you suspicious. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your full payment upfront. If a moving company has a long history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable piece of advice for long-distance moves is to reserve your movers far enough in advance. We recommend scheduling movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we recommend starting a month in advance. You probably have valuable, fragile, or sentimental belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

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

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

The night before your move, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers must provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection is pricier, it gives you better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less protection. If you choose this plan, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are damaged or lost.

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

Sources

Kentucky Department of Motor Vehicles U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration