10 best long-distance moving companies in Kannapolis, NC

Long-distance or interstate moves have their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about concerns such as how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Picking the right movers can help ease your problems. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Kannapolis to help you, your family, and your belongings make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in many ways. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only work within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to charge based on how long a job takes, while long-distance movers more likely to charge based on the weight they're moving. Keep in mind that some movers might use both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Local Kannapolis moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and experience, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Kannapolis

Selecting the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options can be overwhelming. Below, we offer some tips on how to choose a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Kannapolis.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can inquire about these or other insurance options. In addition to the insurance choices carried by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance plans in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in Kannapolis several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies have financing options. A moving or relocation loan can help pay for some of the cost. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. We recommend researching several loans to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what previous clients have said about particular long-distance movers. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and loved ones.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to get a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Additionally, reputable moving companies won't demand the full payment upfront. If a moving company has a long history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A great piece of advice for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough ahead of time. We suggest booking movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. When it comes to valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

Making a checklist of all the things that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the North Carolina DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

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

The night before moving day, remember to get a good night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if some of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers are required to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but includes more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it has less coverage. If you choose this insurance, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, 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