10 best long-distance moving companies in Clayton, NC

Long-distance or interstate moves present unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move your car.

Choosing the right moving professionals can help lessen your challenges. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've created this list of the best long-distance movers in Clayton.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in several ways. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only operate within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Local movers are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance movers more likely to charge based on the weight. Keep in mind that some moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific location and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves is invaluable. Long-distance movers can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Clayton

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options may be overwhelming, making it challenging to pick the right one for you. Here are some tips for picking a reliable long-distance moving company in Clayton.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is inside one state, look into the options provided by your mover. To better protect your possessions during the move, we recommend purchasing personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Clayton several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, ensure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can help with cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We suggest looking into several loans to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others have said about specific long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to book and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months. Because there are so many college students living in Clayton, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Reliable moving companies generally won't ask for your complete payment before the move. If a moving company has a history of poor 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 moving company far enough ahead of time is essential for a successful long-distance move. We advise booking your move at least three months ahead of time, or possibly earlier if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we advise starting a month in advance. You might choose to keep certain fragile, sentimental, or valuable items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

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

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

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 some of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but provides more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less coverage. This plan requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions damaged or lost 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 when you 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