10 best long-distance moving companies in Bayou Cane, LA

Long-distance or interstate moves bring unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

The right moving company can help put your mind at ease. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've compiled this list of the top long-distance movers in Bayou Cane.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only do local moves. Local movers usually only operate within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to charge by time. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Although local movers may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and stress 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 Bayou Cane

Picking the right long-distance mover in Bayou Cane requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. See the list below for some tips on picking a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Bayou Cane.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or similar options. To fully protect your belongings during the move, we recommend purchasing personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to supply clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in Bayou Cane several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing options to help you pay for your move. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help cover expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several choices allows you to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what other clients say about particular long-distance moving companies. You should also ask neighbors and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to hire a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you cautious. Reliable moving companies generally shouldn't request your complete payment before the move. If a mover has an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Finding your moving company well before your move date is essential when preparing for a long-distance move. We recommend scheduling movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving 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 fragile, sentimental, or valuable belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

We also suggest making 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.

Put together essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, toiletries, and medicine.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if some of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less protection. This insurance requires your movers to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

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

Sources

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