10 best long-distance moving companies in Florence, SC

Long-distance or interstate moves bring their own challenges that set them apart from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

Picking the right moving professionals can help alleviate your worries. We've put together this list of the leading long-distance movers in Florence so you, your family, and your belongings arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are some key differences to be aware of. Local moving companies only offer services within a specific geographic area and often charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to such requests at all.

Local movers are also more likely to charge based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight. However, some movers use a combination of time and weight to set their prices, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

Local Florence moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when relocating to another state. 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 Florence

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices may be overwhelming, making it challenging to hire the right one for your needs. Below, we provide some recommendations on how to find a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Florence.

• 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. You can look into these or other insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. To better protect your possessions during the move, we recommend obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Florence several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Ensure these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the cost. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare several loans to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what previous customers have said about specific long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable 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 costlier to book a mover. Florence also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Additionally, trustworthy moving companies shouldn’t demand the full payment before the move. Steer clear of movers that have an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to book your moving company well before of your move date. It's best if you schedule your move at least three months beforehand. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. When it comes to valuable, sentimental, or fragile belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as notifying the South Carolina DMV of your new address.

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

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll provide reimbursement if any of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it has reduced coverage. This option requires your movers to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings damaged or lost during the move.

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