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

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in significant ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against challenges such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

The right moving professionals can help put your mind at ease. That’s why we’ve made this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in North Charleston to help you, your family, and your possessions arrive 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 keep in mind. Local movers often only work within a certain geographic area. They'll usually charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

Local movers are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight. However, some movers use a mix of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

Local North Charleston movers may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in North Charleston

Finding the right long-distance mover in North Charleston requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. Below, we have compiled some tips on how to find a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in North Charleston.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can ask about these or other insurance options for long-distance moves inside one state. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers 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 company. 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 movers in North Charleston several months before your move and get detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We advise looking into several choices to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about particular long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. You should also ask friends and family for recommendations.
• 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 book a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in North Charleston, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that offer “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding quotes. Reputable moving companies generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment before the move. If a moving company has a long history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful 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 schedule your move at least 90 days ahead of time. This gives you plenty of time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need more specialized services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You might prefer to keep certain valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Putting together a checklist of all the tasks 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.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by putting together a bag with items such as medications, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and extra clothes.

Finally, make sure to get plenty of rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll pay you back if any of your items are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less protection. With this insurance, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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