7 best long-distance moving companies in Lake Charles, LA

There are several importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

Lessen your issues by choosing the right movers for the job. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive at your new home without incident, we've put together this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Lake Charles.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are different in a few ways. Local movers generally provide moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

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 some moving companies might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Local Lake Charles moving companies are typically more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and experience, 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 Lake Charles

When you're picking a long-distance mover, the wide range of options may be overwhelming. Here are some tips for finding a legitimate long-distance moving company in Lake Charles.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, inquire about the options provided by your mover. To completely protect your belongings during the move, we recommend purchasing personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. We discuss long-distance moving insurance plans in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to ask for itemized quotes from several long-distance movers in Lake Charles. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing plans 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 expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few loans to make sure you get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what previous customers think about certain long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be challenging and more expensive to book a moving company. Lake Charles also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you cautious. Additionally, trustworthy movers won't demand the full payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies that have an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to secure your moving company well before of your move date. It's best if you schedule 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.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we advise getting started a month beforehand. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed 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.

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

The night before moving day, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. While Full Value Protection costs more, it gives you more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it provides less protection. With this insurance, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items.

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

Sources

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