10 best long-distance moving companies in Cary, NC

There are many factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the best movers for the job. That’s why we’ve put together this overview of the best long-distance movers in Cary to help you, your family, and your belongings get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ from those that only do local moves. Local moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies commonly set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies typically set fees based on the length of time required for your move. Some movers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to calculate their prices, so it's key to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific location and potentially offer less expensive rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves is invaluable. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Cary

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options may feel overwhelming, making it challenging to select the right one for you. Here are some tips for choosing a legitimate long-distance moving company in Cary.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, look into the options provided by your mover. To fully protect your possessions during the move, we recommend obtaining personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers 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 policies such as requiring movers to provide customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months in advance to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to ask for itemized cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Cary. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing plans to help you pay for your move. 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. You should compare several loans to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others have said about certain long-distance movers. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and relatives.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be challenging and more expensive to book a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Cary, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you wary. Additionally, reputable moving companies won't demand the full payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies that have a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your moving company well before your move date is essential when planning a long-distance move. To ensure a stress-free move, schedule your movers no less than three months before your move date, and potentially even more if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You probably have fragile, sentimental, or valuable belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

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

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a suitcase with items such as toothbrushes, extra clothes, and medicine.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll reimburse you if any of your possessions are lost or damagedby your movers.

All interstate movers must provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain belongings that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. Full Value Protection is more expensive but gives you greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less protection. This option requires your moving company to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items damaged or lost 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. 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