10 best long-distance moving companies in Summerville, SC

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

Selecting the right moving professionals can help lessen your problems. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home without incident, we've compiled this guide to the top long-distance movers in Summerville.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in a few ways. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically 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.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers typically set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers typically charge based on the time needed for your move. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when setting their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when moving from one state to another. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the right 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 Summerville

Finding the right long-distance mover in Summerville requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. See the list below for some guidance on picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Summerville.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or similar options. To better protect your possessions during the move, we recommend getting personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to provide clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Summerville several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, ensure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing options to help you pay for your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several loans allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what others say about particular long-distance movers. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be challenging and more expensive to get a mover. Summerville 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 suspicious of movers that give you “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding estimates. Trustworthy movers generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment before the move. Avoid moving companies that have a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Securing your moving company far enough ahead of time is essential when planning a long-distance move. We recommend planning your move at least 90 days in advance, or possibly earlier if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we suggest starting a month ahead of time. When it comes to sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Writing a checklist of all the things 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.

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

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 key because it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers need to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. 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 gives you less protection. This plan requires your moving company to reimburse 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 after you move. This usually 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