10 best long-distance moving companies in Myrtle Beach, SC

Long-distance or interstate moves bring unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against concerns like how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Lessen your issues by selecting the best moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve made this overview of the top long-distance movers in Myrtle Beach to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are several key differences to consider. Local movers typically only work within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies more often charge based on how long a job takes. Keep in mind that some moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Local Myrtle Beach moving companies are generally more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when relocating to another state. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Myrtle Beach

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options can feel overwhelming, making it challenging to pick the right one for your needs. Here are some tips for choosing a reliable long-distance moving company in Myrtle Beach.

• 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. For long-distance moves inside one state, looking into these or other insurance options is a good idea. We also suggest getting your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a qualified mover. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start seeking out estimates several months before your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to get detailed cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Myrtle Beach. As you compare estimates, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong option to help with cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several options allows you to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what previous clients thought about certain long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, get recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means movers may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Myrtle Beach 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” estimates or nonbinding prices. Reputable movers generally won't demand your complete payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies that have a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice for long-distance moves is to book your movers far enough ahead of time. We suggest hiring movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we suggest getting started a month beforehand. You might choose to keep certain fragile, sentimental, or valuable possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

It's also a good idea to make a checklist of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the South Carolina DMV.

Pack essentials for the first few days of your move, such as medications, extra clothes, and toiletries.

Finally, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide money back for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain belongings that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it has less protection. With this insurance, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy after you move. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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