3 best long-distance moving companies in Alexandria, LA

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in severalimportant ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against concerns like how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

The right moving company can help lessen your issues. We've put together this guide to the top long-distance movers in Alexandria so you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are several key differences to consider. Local moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic radius. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

Local moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight. However, some movers use a combination of time and weight to calculate their prices, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

Local Alexandria moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Alexandria

Picking the right long-distance mover is important, and the options can feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for picking a reliable long-distance moving company in Alexandria.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or similar options. To completely protect your possessions during the move, we suggest purchasing personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. We discuss long-distance moving insurance options in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start requesting quotes several months before your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to get detailed cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Alexandria. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing options. 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 relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several options allows you to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others have said about particular long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be challenging and more expensive to hire a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you cautious. Additionally, reputable movers shouldn’t ask for the full payment before the move. Avoid moving companies with an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A good tip for long-distance moves is to find your movers far enough ahead of time. We recommend scheduling your move at least 90 days ahead of time, or possibly earlier if you need more 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 might prefer to keep certain possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

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

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

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is key, as it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers have to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings 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 costs more but provides greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it gives you less protection. This option requires your moving company to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions damaged or lost during the move.

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

Sources

Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicle U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration