10 best long-distance moving companies in Socastee, SC

There are a variety of factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues like how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

Put your mind at ease by hiring the right moving professionals for the job. We've made this guide to the best long-distance movers in Socastee so you, your family, and your belongings make it 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 several key differences to keep in mind. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only offer services within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it 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 items, while local movers more often charge based on how long a job takes. Some moving providers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to determine their final cost, so it's necessary to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be more affordable), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when it comes to moving between states. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Socastee

Choosing the right long-distance mover in Socastee requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. See the list below for some tips on picking a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Socastee.

• 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. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or other insurance options. In addition to the insurance options offered by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your possessions. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Socastee several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Ensure these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong strategy to help cover cost. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several loans 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 other platforms to learn what previous customers think about particular long-distance moving companies. You should also ask neighbors and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to book a moving company. Socastee also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you wary. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your entire payment before the move. Steer clear of movers with an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable piece of advice for long-distance moves is to find your movers far enough ahead of time. To ensure a stress-free move, hire your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and potentially even more if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. When it comes to fragile, sentimental, or valuable belongings, 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.

We also advise making a checklist of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the South Carolina DMV.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, medications, and extra clothes.

Lastly, make sure to get enough rest the night before moving day.

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.

All interstate movers must provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide money back for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. While Full Value Protection is more expensive, it offers better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it provides less protection. With this plan, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged items.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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