10 best long-distance moving companies in Columbia, SC

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in significant ways. When you're moving long-distance, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move your car.

The right moving company can help put your mind at ease. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've compiled this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Columbia.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically set fees based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies more often set fees based on time. Certain moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when establishing their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Local Columbia movers may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Columbia

When you're picking a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of choices may be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of finding a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Columbia, we've collected some advice below.

• 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 customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or other insurance options. In addition to the insurance options offered by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. You can find more detailed information about long-term 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 reputable mover is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers provide clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have adequate time to plan your move. Reach out to multiple long-distance moving providers in Columbia and request detailed cost breakdowns. Make sure these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing options. A moving or relocation loan can with expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several choices allows you to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what others say about particular long-distance movers. You should also ask neighbors and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and more expensive to hire a mover. Since Columbia is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you cautious. Additionally, reliable moving companies won't request the full payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies that have a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to secure your moving company well before of your move date. We advise planning your move at least three months beforehand, or even earlier if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we advise getting started a month ahead of time. You might prefer to keep certain possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

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

Pack necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, toiletries, and medicine.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is critical because it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable possessions (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. Full Value Protection is pricier but offers more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it gives less protection. This option requires your movers to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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