10 best long-distance moving companies in Jacksonville, NC

There are several factors that distinguish 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 like how to move your car.

Hiring the right moving professionals can help alleviate your concerns. We've made this overview of the top long-distance movers in Jacksonville so you, your family, and your possessions arrive to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are distinct in several ways. Local movers only offer services within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to these jobs at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on time. However, some companies use a mix of time and weight to calculate their prices, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

Local Jacksonville moving companies are generally more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when relocating to another state. Choosing a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Jacksonville

Picking the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options can feel overwhelming. See the list below for some tips on finding a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Jacksonville.

• 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. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, looking into these or similar insurance options is a good idea. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to fully protect your possessions. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to provide a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Jacksonville several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing options. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We advise looking into several choices to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what other clients have said about particular long-distance movers. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to hire a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. You should also be cautious 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. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice for long-distance moves is to reserve your movers far enough ahead of time. We recommend planning your move at least 90 days beforehand, or possibly earlier if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. When it comes to valuable, fragile, or sentimental belongings, such as electronics 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, prepare a detailed list of all the necessary tasks 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 of your move, such as extra clothes, medications, and toiletries.

The night before moving day, don't forget to get a full night's sleep.

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.

All interstate movers have to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions 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 pricier but provides greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it has less protection. With this plan, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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