10 best long-distance moving companies in Shelby, NC

There are several factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move your car.

The right moving professionals can help ease your concerns. That’s why we’ve made this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Shelby to help you, your family, and your possessions make it safely to your new home.

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. 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 area and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies usually set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers typically charge based on the time required for your move. Some movers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to set their prices, so it's important to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

Local Shelby moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and experience, especially when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Shelby

Choosing the right long-distance mover is important, and the options can feel overwhelming. Below, we offer some guidance on how to choose a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Shelby.

• 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. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, inquiring about these or other options is a good idea. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Shelby several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing options as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help with expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise researching several choices to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what other customers think about particular long-distance moving companies. Friends and family 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 get a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that give you “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding estimates. Legitimate moving companies generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment before the move. Avoid moving companies that have a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A good tip for long-distance moves is to secure your movers far enough ahead of time. It's best if you book your move at least three months in advance. This gives you enough time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month 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 having them packed in the mover's truck.

Creating a checklist of all the things that need to be done 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 bag with items such as extra clothes, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and medicine.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is key since 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. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable items (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. Full Value Protection is pricier but gives you greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it has less protection. With this option, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged items.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. 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