10 best long-distance moving companies in Conway, SC

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in severalimportant ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns such as how to move your car.

The right moving company can help put your mind at ease. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Conway to help you, your family, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in several ways. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers are more likely to charge based on time. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when setting their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be more affordable), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when moving between states. Choosing a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Conway

Picking the right long-distance mover in Conway requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. To help you navigate the process of finding a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Conway, we've gathered some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of options for 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 options. In addition to the insurance options carried by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to provide a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Conway 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 added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can help with expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We recommend researching several options to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what others think about particular long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be difficult and costlier to get a mover. Since Conway is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your full payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies that have an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your movers well before your move date is essential for a successful long-distance move. We suggest scheduling movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You probably have valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Make a list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move. The list should include tasks such as updating your address with the South Carolina DMV.

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

Finally, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is a must for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if some of your items are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers are required to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable items (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. While Full Value Protection is more expensive, it gives you more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less protection. With this option, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, 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