10 best long-distance moving companies in Wilmington, NC

There are several importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may have to deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges like how to move your car.

Alleviate your worries by hiring the right movers for the job. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Wilmington to help you, your family, and your possessions arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ significantly 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 fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer more affordable rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves is indispensable. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Wilmington

When you're choosing a long-distance mover, the wide range of options may be overwhelming. See the list below for some recommendations on choosing a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Wilmington.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or other insurance options. To completely protect your possessions during the move, we suggest purchasing your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to supply a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Wilmington several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing plans to help you pay for your move. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help cover expenses. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We suggest researching several options to get 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 certain long-distance moving companies. You should also ask neighbors and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be challenging and more expensive to book a moving company. Since Wilmington is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that give you “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding quotes. Legitimate movers generally won't request your complete payment upfront. If a moving company has an extensive history of bad 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 key piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to schedule your moving company well before of your move date. We recommend scheduling your move at least three months ahead of time, or even earlier if you need unique 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. You might prefer to keep certain fragile, valuable, or sentimental items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

It's also a good idea to make a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the North Carolina DMV.

Pack necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, extra clothes, and medicine.

The night before your big move, don't forget to 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 requires 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 possessions lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain belongings that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. Although Full Value Protection is more expensive, it offers better coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it provides reduced coverage. With this option, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged belongings.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. While this usually 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