10 best long-distance moving companies in Greer, SC

There are a range of importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges such as how to move your car.

The right movers can help put your mind at ease. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings reach your new home safely, we've put together this guide to the best long-distance movers in Greer.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies often set fees based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies usually charge based on the time needed for your move. 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 Greer moving companies are often more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance movers can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Greer

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options may feel overwhelming, making it difficult to choose the right one for you. Below, we offer some recommendations on how to choose a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Greer.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves within the same state, looking into these or other options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance coverage offered by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your belongings. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Start getting quotes several months before your move. Contact multiple long-distance moving providers in Greer and get detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, ensure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing plans to help you afford your move. A moving or relocation loan can help pay for some of the cost. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. We recommend looking into several options to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others thought about specific long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and family.
• 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. Greer also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you suspicious. Additionally, trustworthy movers won't ask for the full payment upfront. If a mover has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to find your moving company well before of your move date. We recommend scheduling movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we recommend starting a month beforehand. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Create a list of all the tasks that need 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 of essentials for the first few days, such as extra clothes, medications, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

The night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers must have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Although Full Value Protection is more expensive, it gives you better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it has less coverage. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. It may be helpful to review your policy, 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