10 best long-distance moving companies in Mount Pleasant, SC

Long-distance or interstate moves bring unique challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with concerns such as how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

The right movers can help relieve your challenges. We've compiled this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Mount Pleasant so you, your family, and your possessions make it to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in several ways. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only offer services within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to charge by time. Certain moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when calculating their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when it comes to moving from one state to another. Selecting a long-distance mover 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 Mount Pleasant

Hiring the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices can feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of picking a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Mount Pleasant, we've collected some advice below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, looking into these or other options is a good idea. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. 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. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in Mount Pleasant several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing plans. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good strategy 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. We recommend researching several options to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what other customers think about particular long-distance movers. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Mount Pleasant also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that offer “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding quotes. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your full payment before the move. If a moving company has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to schedule your moving company well in advance of your move date. It's best if you plan your move at least 90 days in advance. This gives you enough time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we suggest getting started a month ahead of time. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving 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 of essentials for the first few days of your move, such as toiletries, extra clothes, and medicine.

The night before your big move, don't forget to get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. 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 movers might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but includes greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less coverage. This insurance requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy when you 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