10 best long-distance moving companies in Kenner, LA

There are importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may have to deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Alleviate your concerns by choosing the best moving professionals for the job. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home safely, we've put together this guide to the top long-distance movers in Kenner.

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 note. Local movers only work within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such requests at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers are more likely to charge by time. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when calculating their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local Kenner moving companies are generally more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Kenner

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices may feel overwhelming, making it difficult to hire the right one for you. To help you navigate the process of finding a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Kenner, we've gathered some guidance below.

• 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 clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves inside one state. To better protect your belongings during the move, we recommend obtaining personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to supply customers with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: We suggest seeking out quotes several months ahead of your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to ask for itemized quotes from several long-distance movers in Kenner. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing options to help you afford your move. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several choices allows you to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what other customers say about particular long-distance moving companies. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means movers may be harder to hire and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months. Since Kenner is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Additionally, reliable movers shouldn’t ask for the full payment before the move. Steer clear of movers with a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A great piece of advice for long-distance moves is to find your movers far enough in advance. It's best if you book your move at least 90 days in advance. This gives you enough time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specific 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 items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

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, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Put together essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, medications, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damagedin the move.

All interstate movers must offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable items (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. Full Value Protection costs more but includes better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it has less coverage. This plan requires your movers to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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