10 best long-distance moving companies in Charleston, SC

There are many importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with concerns such as how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Alleviate your concerns by picking the right moving professionals for the job. We've created this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Charleston so you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are several key differences to note. Local moving companies only offer services within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to these jobs at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on time. Some movers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to calculate their rates, so it's important to check your provider's 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 location and potentially offer less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in handling 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 Charleston

Selecting the right long-distance mover is important, and the options can feel overwhelming. See the list below for some advice on choosing a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Charleston.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can ask about these or similar options for long-distance moves within the same state. To completely protect your possessions during the move, we recommend obtaining personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers provide clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: We suggest asking for quotes several months before your move. Get in touch with multiple long-distance moving providers in Charleston and get detailed cost breakdowns. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing options to help you afford your move. A moving or relocation loan can help with cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few options to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what previous clients say about certain long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means movers may be harder to get and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Charleston also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you suspicious. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment before the move. If a moving company has a long history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to secure your moving company well in advance of your move date. We suggest scheduling your move at least 90 days beforehand, or even earlier if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You might choose to keep certain sentimental, fragile, or valuable possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Putting together 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, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

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

Finally, on the night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll pay you back if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but offers more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it has less coverage. With this option, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged possessions.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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