10 best long-distance moving companies in Burlington, NC

Long-distance or interstate moves present their own challenges that set them apart from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move your car.

Alleviate your issues by picking the best movers for the job. We've compiled this list of the leading long-distance movers in Burlington so you, your family, and your possessions make it 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 note. Local moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a significant fee to do so.

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

Local Burlington moving companies are often more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and experience, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Burlington

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the choices can be overwhelming, making it challenging to choose the right one for you. Here are some tips for choosing a reliable long-distance mover in Burlington.

• 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 customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or similar options. In addition to the insurance options provided by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months in advance to ensure you have plenty of time to plan your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to ask for detailed cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Burlington. As you compare estimates, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you might 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 pay for some of the cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several choices allows you to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what other clients say about certain long-distance moving companies. You should also ask neighbors and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be challenging and more expensive to book a moving company. Burlington also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you wary. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment before the move. If a mover has a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice for long-distance moves is to reserve your movers far enough ahead of time. It's best if you book your move at least three months beforehand. 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 or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. When it comes to sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

To stay organized, write a detailed list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as notifying the North Carolina DMV of your new address.

Pack essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, toiletries, and medicine.

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves because it'll give you money back if any of your possessions are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers have to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but offers greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it provides less protection. This insurance requires your moving company to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. While this usually 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