10 best long-distance moving companies in Richmond, KY

There are a range of importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about concerns such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Choosing the right movers can help relieve your worries. That’s why we’ve created this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Richmond to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only offer local moves. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only offer services within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers often set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies typically set fees based on the time required for your move. Some moving companies, however, may use a mix of time and weight to calculate their prices, so it's key to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be more affordable), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is extremely 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 proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Richmond

Selecting the right long-distance mover is important, and the options can be overwhelming. Here are some tips for choosing a trustworthy long-distance mover in Richmond.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. In addition to the insurance coverage carried by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance options in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to supply a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months in advance to ensure you have adequate time to plan your move. Get itemized cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Richmond. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing options to help you pay for your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong option to help with cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several options allows you to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others have said about specific long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to get and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Since Richmond 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 suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Additionally, trustworthy movers shouldn’t request the full payment before the move. If a moving company has a long history of negative 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 useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to reserve your moving company well in advance of your move date. We suggest booking your move at least 90 days in advance, or even earlier if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

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

Making 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.

Pack essentials for the first few days of your move, such as medications, toothbrushes, and extra clothes.

The night before your move, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll pay you back if any of your possessions are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers have to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but gives you more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it has less coverage. If you choose this option, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are damaged or lost.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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