10 best long-distance moving companies in Terrytown, LA

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in severalimportant ways. When you're moving long-distance, you may encounter higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by hiring the best movers for the job. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings arrive at your new home without incident, we've compiled this list of the top long-distance movers in Terrytown.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only do local moves. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only work within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

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

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific city and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves is indispensable. Long-distance moving companies 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 Terrytown

Picking the right long-distance moving company in Terrytown requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and fits your budget. Here are some tips for finding a legitimate, trustworthy long-distance moving company in Terrytown.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other options for long-distance moves inside one state. In addition to the insurance coverage carried by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance plans in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers provide a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start seeking out estimates several months ahead of your move. Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Terrytown and get detailed cost breakdowns. As you compare estimates, ensure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing options. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good choice to help pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. We recommend looking into several choices to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what previous clients think about certain long-distance movers. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and relatives.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and more expensive to get a mover. Since Terrytown is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that give you “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding quotes. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your entire payment upfront. Avoid moving companies that have a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A good piece of advice for long-distance moves is to book your movers far enough in advance. We advise booking your move at least three months beforehand, or possibly earlier if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Putting together a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both 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, such as medications, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and extra clothes.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to replace, repair, or provide money back for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain belongings that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection costs more but gives you more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it has less protection. If you choose this option, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are damaged or lost.

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, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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