6 best long-distance moving companies in Paducah, KY

There are many importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges like how to move your car.

The right moving company can help alleviate your concerns. We've made this list of the top long-distance movers in Paducah so you, your family, 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 are distinct in several ways. Local moving companies only offer services within a specific geographic area and often charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to these jobs at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge by weight, while local moving companies more often charge based on how long a job takes. However, some providers use a combination of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

Local Paducah movers may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. These companies are more likely to have the right 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 Paducah

Selecting the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options can be overwhelming. Here are some tips for finding a reliable long-distance moving company in Paducah.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves inside one state. In addition to the insurance choices provided by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your possessions. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months in advance to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to ask for itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Paducah. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies offer financing options. A moving or relocation loan can help pay for some of the cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several loans allows you to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what other clients have said about specific long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. You should also ask neighbors and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be difficult and costlier to hire a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that offer “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding prices. Trustworthy moving companies generally won't ask for your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of movers that have a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to hire your moving company well in advance of your move date. To ensure a stress-free move, find your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and potentially even more if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You might prefer to keep certain possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Create a list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move. The list should include tasks such as updating your address with the Kentucky DMV.

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

Lastly, make sure to get a good night’s sleep the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll pay you back 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 repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain items that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less coverage. This plan requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy after you move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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