6 best long-distance moving companies in Columbus, MS

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in several ways. When you're moving long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Lessen your worries by selecting the right moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Columbus to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings get safely to your new home.

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 keep in mind. Local movers typically only work within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. Some moving providers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to set their prices, so it's necessary to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

Local Columbus movers may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Using a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Columbus

Finding the right long-distance moving company in Columbus requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. Below, we provide some guidance on how to pick a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Columbus.

• 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. You can look into these or other options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers supply a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Columbus several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help cover expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. We recommend looking into several options to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what others have said about particular long-distance movers. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving between May and September.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you wary. Additionally, reputable moving companies shouldn’t request the full payment upfront. If a moving company has an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable piece of advice for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough in advance. It's best if you schedule your move at least three months beforehand. This gives you plenty of time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that 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 without professional help. You might prefer to keep certain possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

We also advise making a checklist of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Mississippi DMV.

Pack essentials for the first few days, such as medications, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and extra clothes.

Finally, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll pay you back if any of your items are lost or damagedin the move.

All interstate movers must offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection is more expensive, it offers more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it gives you reduced coverage. With this option, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged items.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy after you move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

Mississippi Department of Public Safety U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration