10 best long-distance moving companies in Simpsonville, SC

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in a variety of ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues like how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

Selecting the right moving professionals can help alleviate your issues. We've compiled this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Simpsonville so you, your family, and your belongings arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are many key differences to note. Local movers only operate within a specific geographic radius and usually charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such requests at all.

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

Local Simpsonville moving companies are generally more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and experience, especially when relocating to another state. 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 stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Simpsonville

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the choices can feel overwhelming, making it difficult to hire the right one for your move. Here are some tips for picking a legitimate long-distance moving company in Simpsonville.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. We also suggest obtaining your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance options in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers supply a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in Simpsonville several months before your move and get detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing options to help you afford your move. A moving or relocation loan can pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few choices to make sure you get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what previous clients think about particular long-distance movers. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and costlier to get a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that give you “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding estimates. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your entire payment upfront. If a moving company has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

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

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. When it comes to fragile, valuable, or sentimental items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

Make a list of everything that needs 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 suitcase with essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as medications, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and extra clothes.

The night before your big move, remember to get a full night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to replace, repair, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable items (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. While Full Value Protection is more expensive, it provides more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it provides less protection. This plan requires your movers to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions 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. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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