10 best long-distance moving companies in Asheville, NC

Long-distance or interstate moves have their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against challenges such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

The right movers can help put your mind at ease. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best long-distance movers in Asheville 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 from those that only offer local moves. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only work within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. Certain moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when calculating their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, especially when moving between states. Hiring 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 Asheville

Picking the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices can be overwhelming. See the list below for some recommendations on picking a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Asheville.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to supply a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have plenty of time to plan your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to get itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Asheville. Make sure these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few options to make sure you select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what previous clients say about particular long-distance movers. You should also ask neighbors and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to book a moving company. Asheville also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your entire payment upfront. If a moving company has a long history of bad 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

Booking your movers far enough ahead of time is essential for a successful long-distance move. It's best if you schedule your move at least three months in advance. This gives you plenty of time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need more specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, prepare a detailed list of all the necessary tasks before and after your move, such as notifying the North Carolina DMV of your new address.

Pack a bag with necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, a toothbrush and toothpaste, 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 essential for long-distance moves. It'll cover the cost if any of your possessions are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers must provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain items that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. Full Value Protection is more expensive but includes greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it has less coverage. This option requires your moving company to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy during your move. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration