7 best long-distance moving companies in Jefferson City, MO

Long-distance or interstate moves include unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

The right movers can help put your mind at ease. That’s why we’ve created this list of the top long-distance movers in Jefferson City to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only do local moves. Local movers often only offer services within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that area 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 they're moving. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when calculating their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local Jefferson City movers may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Jefferson City

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options may feel overwhelming, making it difficult to pick the right one for your move. To help you navigate the process of picking a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Jefferson City, we've gathered some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers 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 Jefferson City several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, ensure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong strategy to help cover expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several options allows you to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others say about specific long-distance moving companies. You should also ask neighbors and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to book and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Trustworthy movers generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment upfront. If a mover has an extensive 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

Securing your movers well before your move date is extremely important when preparing for a long-distance move. We suggest planning your move at least three months beforehand, or even earlier if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. When it comes to sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

Put together a list of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move. The list should include things such as updating your address with the Missouri DMV.

Pack essentials for the first few days of your move, such as toothbrushes, extra clothes, and medications.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. Full Value Protection is more expensive but provides more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it provides less coverage. This plan requires your movers to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings lost or damaged during the move.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

Missouri Department of Revenue U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration