10 best long-distance moving companies in New Iberia, LA

Long-distance or interstate moves bring their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

The right moving company can help put your mind at ease. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in New Iberia to help you, your family, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ 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 often only work within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to charge based on how long a job takes, while long-distance movers more likely to set fees based on the weight. Keep in mind that certain movers might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Although local movers may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when it comes to moving between states. Long-distance movers can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in New Iberia

Picking the right long-distance moving company in New Iberia requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. See the list below for some recommendations on picking a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in New Iberia.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, look into the options provided by your mover. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to better protect your belongings. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies 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 mover. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers supply customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in New Iberia several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Confirm that these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can help cover cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several options allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what previous clients thought about certain long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to get a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Legitimate movers generally shouldn't request your complete payment upfront. If a mover has a 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 good piece of advice for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough in advance. It's best if you schedule your move at least 90 days ahead of time. This gives you plenty of time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need more specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. You probably have valuable, sentimental, or fragile belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed 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 essentials for the first few days of your move, such as toothbrushes, extra clothes, and medicine.

The night before moving day, remember to get a full night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll cover the cost if any of your possessions are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less coverage. If you choose this insurance, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy when you move. 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