10 best long-distance moving companies in Louisville, KY

Long-distance or interstate moves have unique challenges that distinguish them from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may be dealing with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move your car.

The right moving company can help relieve your problems. We've put together this list of the top long-distance movers in Louisville so you, your loved ones, and your possessions get to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies differ in a few ways. Local moving companies only offer services within a specific geographic area and often charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to such jobs at all.

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

Local Louisville movers may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance movers 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 Louisville

Finding the right long-distance moving company in Louisville requires research to make sure the company meets your needs and fits your budget. See the list below for some recommendations on choosing a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Louisville.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can inquire about these or similar insurance options. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to completely protect your belongings. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers provide a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in Louisville several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Make sure these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing options to help you afford your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good strategy to help cover expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several options allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about particular long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to hire a mover. Since Louisville is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your entire payment before the move. If a moving company has an extensive 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 in advance is key for a successful long-distance move. It's best if you schedule your move at least three months ahead of time. This gives you enough time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. You probably have valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, write a detailed list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as notifying the Kentucky DMV of your new address.

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

Lastly, on the night before your move, 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 damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have 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 moving companies might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it provides less protection. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. 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