10 best long-distance moving companies in Greenville, SC

There are a variety of factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move your car.

The right moving company can help lessen your worries. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home safely, we've put together this overview of the best long-distance movers in Greenville.

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

Local moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight. Keep in mind that some movers might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Local Greenville 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. Choosing a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical 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 Greenville

When you're selecting a long-distance mover, the wide range of choices may feel overwhelming. See the list below for some advice on picking a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Greenville.

• 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 ask about these or other insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to completely protect your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Greenville several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong option to help pay for some of the expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several loans allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others have said about specific long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be challenging and more expensive to hire a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you suspicious. Additionally, reputable moving companies won't demand the full payment upfront. Avoid moving companies that have an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

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

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. You probably have sentimental, valuable, or fragile belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Creating a checklist of all the things that need to be done 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.

Put together a bag with necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as medicine, extra clothes, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

Lastly, make sure to get a good night’s sleep the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves because it'll reimburse you if any of your items are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but includes greater coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it provides less protection. With this insurance, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged possessions.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy when you move. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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