8 best long-distance moving companies in Tupelo, MS

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in many ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against challenges like how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

The right moving professionals can help relieve your concerns. We've created this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Tupelo so you, your loved ones, and your possessions get to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are a few key differences to be aware of. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only offer services within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically set fees based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies are more likely to charge based on time. Some movers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to calculate their final cost, so it's important to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

Local Tupelo moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Tupelo

When you're selecting a long-distance mover, the wide variety of options can feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of choosing a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Tupelo, we've put together some guidance below.

• 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. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or similar insurance options. We also suggest getting your own moving insurance to completely protect your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance options in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers provide a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Tupelo several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing plans to help you afford your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise looking into several choices to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what other clients thought about specific long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and relatives.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to book a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you wary. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your entire payment before the move. If a mover has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A great tip for long-distance moves is to book your movers far enough ahead of time. To ensure a stress-free move, hire your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and possibly even more if you need more unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we suggest starting a month ahead of time. You might prefer to have certain items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Create a list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move. The list should include items such as updating your address with the Mississippi DMV.

Put together necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as medications, extra clothes, and toiletries.

Lastly, make sure to get enough rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll cover the cost if any of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain belongings that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection is more expensive but offers better coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it gives you less protection. With this insurance, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged possessions.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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