10 best long-distance moving companies in Fort Mill, SC

Long-distance or interstate moves bring their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

The right movers can help put your mind at ease. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings reach your new home safely, we've created this overview of the top long-distance movers in Fort Mill.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are distinct in many ways. Local moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic radius. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies typically set fees based on the weight of your items, while local movers typically set fees based on the length of time required for your move. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when setting their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local Fort Mill moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. These companies 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 Fort Mill

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices can be overwhelming, making it difficult to hire the right one for you. Here are some tips for picking a legitimate long-distance mover in Fort Mill.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of 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 similar options. We also suggest obtaining your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed overview 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 rules such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months in advance to ensure you have adequate time to plan your move. Get itemized cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Fort Mill. Ensure these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing plans. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help cover expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several options allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others have said about specific long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. You should also ask neighbors and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be challenging and costlier to hire a moving company. Fort Mill 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: Movers that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you cautious. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your full payment upfront. Avoid movers with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Securing your moving company far enough in advance is key for a successful long-distance move. It's best if you plan your move at least three months beforehand. This gives you plenty of time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need more specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. When it comes to sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

Writing a checklist of all the things 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 a bag with essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as extra clothes, medications, and toothbrushes.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers have to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it provides reduced coverage. This option requires your moving company to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings 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 during your move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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