10 best long-distance moving companies in Gastonia, NC

Long-distance or interstate moves present their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

Put your mind at ease by choosing the best moving professionals for the job. We've put together this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Gastonia so you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only offer local moves. Local movers generally offer moving services within a designated geographic radius. 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 often set fees based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies typically set fees based on the length of time required for your move. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when calculating their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local Gastonia movers may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches 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 Gastonia

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in Gastonia requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. To help you navigate the process of finding a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Gastonia, we've gathered some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or similar options. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to better protect your belongings. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to ask for detailed cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Gastonia. Ensure these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We suggest researching several loans to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others have said about specific long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Friends and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to book and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you suspicious. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your full payment before the move. Avoid moving companies that have a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to book your moving company well before of your move date. It's best if you plan your move at least 90 days 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 a month in advance. You probably have sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, prepare 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 a bag of essentials for the first few days, such as toothbrushes, medicine, and extra clothes.

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. 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 may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less protection. This insurance requires your movers to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions damaged or lost during the move.

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