10 best long-distance moving companies in Southaven, MS

There are several factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the right moving professionals for the job. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive at your new home safely, we've put together this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Southaven.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are different in a few ways. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only work within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. Some moving providers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to set their final cost, so it's necessary to check your provider's pricing structure.

Local Southaven moving companies are generally more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when relocating to another state. Selecting a long-distance moving company 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 Southaven

Selecting the right long-distance mover is important, and the options can feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for picking a trustworthy long-distance moving company in Southaven.

• 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. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, inquire about the options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance options provided by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices 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 qualified company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers provide clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Southaven several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you might 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 strong option to help with cost. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple choices to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others say about particular long-distance movers. Friends and family 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 hire and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Because there are so many college students living in Southaven, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that provide “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding prices. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment upfront. If a mover has a long history of bad 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 valuable piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to schedule your moving company well before of your move date. To ensure an easy move, find your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need more unique services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You might prefer to keep certain valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

It's also a good idea to make a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Mississippi DMV.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days of your move, such as medicine, extra clothes, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but provides better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less coverage. With this insurance, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged items.

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

Sources

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