10 best long-distance moving companies in Cornelius, NC

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

Choosing the right movers can help alleviate your concerns. That’s why we’ve made this list of the top long-distance movers in Cornelius to help you, your family, and your possessions arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are some key differences to keep in mind. Local movers 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.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers typically charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers commonly charge based on the length of time required for your move. Keep in mind that some movers might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific city and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves can't be beaten. 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 Cornelius

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices can be overwhelming, making it difficult to select the right one for your move. See the list below for some tips on finding a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Cornelius.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other insurance options for long-distance moves within the same state. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to completely protect your belongings. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to supply customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Cornelius several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you might need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing plans to help you afford your move. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help cover cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several choices to make sure you select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what previous customers think about particular long-distance movers. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and relatives.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means movers may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving between May and September.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that offer “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding quotes. Additionally, trustworthy movers shouldn’t request the full payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies with an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to secure your moving company well in advance of your move date. We advise booking movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we suggest starting a month beforehand. You might prefer to keep certain fragile, valuable, or sentimental possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Make a list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move. The list should include things such as updating your address with the North Carolina DMV.

Pack necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, extra clothes, and medications.

Finally, on the night before your move, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is key because it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers are required to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it provides less protection. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are damaged or lost.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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