10 best long-distance moving companies in Monroe, NC

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in a variety of ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against challenges like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Selecting the right movers can help relieve your issues. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home without incident, we've put together this guide to the top long-distance movers in Monroe.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only offer local moves. Local moving companies generally offer 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.

Local movers 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. Some moving companies, however, may use a mix of time and weight to determine their rates, so it's necessary to discuss your provider's 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 expertise that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Monroe

When you're picking a long-distance mover, the wide variety of options can be overwhelming. Here are some tips for picking a reliable long-distance mover in Monroe.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of insurance coverage to their clients: 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. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to completely protect 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. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a reputable 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: Ask for quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have plenty of time to plan your move. Ask for itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Monroe. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies offer financing options. A moving or relocation loan can help 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 recommend looking into several options to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what other customers say about specific long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be difficult and more expensive to book a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you cautious. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your entire payment upfront. If a moving company has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be knowledgeable about 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 schedule your moving company well before of your move date. We advise scheduling your move at least 90 days beforehand, or even earlier if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. When it comes to fragile, sentimental, or valuable belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

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

Pack essentials for the first few days of your move, such as extra clothes, toothbrushes, and medicine.

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll give you money back if any of your items are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but provides more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it has less protection. If you choose this plan, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are lost or damaged.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your 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