10 best long-distance moving companies in Bluffton, SC

There are many importantfactors 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 challenges such as how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by picking the best movers for the job. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings arrive at your new home without incident, we've created this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Bluffton.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ from those that only do local moves. Local movers typically only offer services within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

Local movers are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance movers more likely to set fees based on the weight. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when calculating their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Local Bluffton movers may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Bluffton

When you're selecting a long-distance mover, the wide variety of options may feel overwhelming. See the list below for some recommendations on choosing a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Bluffton.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. In addition to the insurance options provided by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance coverage in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies 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 enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers provide a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We suggest seeking out quotes several months before your move. Reach out to multiple long-distance moving providers in Bluffton and get detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing options to help you pay for your move. A moving or relocation loan can pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several loans allows you 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 others say about particular long-distance movers. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be challenging and more expensive to get a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that give you “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding quotes. Reputable movers generally won't request your complete payment before the move. If a mover has a long 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

Reserving your movers far enough in advance is extremely important when getting ready for a long-distance move. We recommend scheduling your move at least 90 days in advance, or even earlier if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. You probably have sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have 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 South Carolina DMV.

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

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves because it'll reimburse you if any of your possessions are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable possessions (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection is more expensive but provides more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it has less protection. This insurance requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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