10 best long-distance moving companies in North Augusta, SC

There are many importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues such as how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

Alleviate your problems by selecting the best movers for the job. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings make it to your new home without incident, we've created this guide to the top long-distance movers in North Augusta.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only offer local moves. Local movers only work within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to such jobs at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on time. However, some providers use a combination of time and weight to set their prices, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific location and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves is indispensable. Selecting 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 North Augusta

Picking the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options may be overwhelming. See the list below for some guidance on picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in North Augusta.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves within the same state, inquiring about these or other options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance options provided by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a qualified mover. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in North Augusta 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 have financing options to help you pay for your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to 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 pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what other customers say about certain long-distance moving companies. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and relatives.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to get and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. North Augusta 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 offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you wary. Legitimate moving companies generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment upfront. 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

Booking your moving company far enough in advance is extremely important for a successful long-distance move. We suggest booking your move at least 90 days in advance, or even earlier if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

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

Write 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 of your move, such as toiletries, medicine, and extra clothes.

Finally, on the night before your move, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. Some movers might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it has less protection. This insurance requires your moving company to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy during your move. This typically 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