10 best long-distance moving companies in Bartlett, TN

There are several factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns like how to move your car.

Choosing the right movers can help relieve your problems. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home safely, we've compiled this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Bartlett.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only assist with local moves. Local movers usually only offer services within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on time. Some moving companies, however, may use a mix of time and weight to set their rates, so it's necessary to check your provider's pricing structure.

Local Bartlett moving companies are generally more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when relocating to another state. Hiring a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary 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 Bartlett

Selecting the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices can be overwhelming. See the list below for some recommendations on finding a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Bartlett.

• 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 look into these or similar options for long-distance moves inside one state. In addition to the insurance coverage carried by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your possessions. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance plans 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 company. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to supply clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Bartlett several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing options. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help with expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several loans allows you to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what previous clients have said about particular long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and relatives.
• 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 more expensive to book a moving company. Bartlett 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 wary of movers that provide “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding estimates. Additionally, reliable moving companies shouldn’t request the full payment upfront. Avoid movers that have an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Securing your moving company far enough ahead of time is essential for a successful long-distance move. We advise scheduling movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

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

Write a list of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move. The list should include items such as updating your address with the Tennessee DMV.

Pack essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as toiletries, medications, and extra clothes.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain belongings that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. While Full Value Protection costs more, it offers better coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it has reduced coverage. If you choose this option, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

Tennessee Department of Driver's Services U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration