10 best long-distance moving companies in Hilton Head Island, SC

Long-distance or interstate moves have unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may encounter complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the best moving professionals for the job. We've created this overview of the top long-distance movers in Hilton Head Island so you, your family, and your belongings make it to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only do local moves. 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.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers are more likely to charge based on how long a job takes. Some moving companies, however, may use a mix of time and weight to determine their prices, so it's important to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, especially when moving from one state to another. Using a long-distance mover 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 Hilton Head Island

Selecting the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices can be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Hilton Head Island, we've collected some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their clients: 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 insurance options. To completely protect your belongings during the move, we recommend obtaining personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months in advance to ensure you have adequate time to plan your move. Get in touch with several long-distance moving providers in Hilton Head Island and get detailed cost breakdowns. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing options to help you pay for your move. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several choices allows you to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about specific long-distance moving companies 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 to move in, it can be challenging and more expensive to book a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that provide “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding estimates. Additionally, legitimate movers won't request the full payment before the move. If a moving company has a history of bad 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

Booking your moving company far enough ahead of time is critical for a successful long-distance move. We suggest planning your move at least 90 days beforehand, or possibly earlier if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we suggest getting started a month in advance. You probably have fragile, sentimental, or valuable belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Write a list of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move. The list should include tasks such as updating your address with the South Carolina DMV.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a bag with items such as extra clothes, toothbrushes, and medicine.

The night before moving day, don't forget to get a good night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is critical, as it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers need to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies 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 it will ultimately get you greater coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it has reduced coverage. This option requires your moving company to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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