10 best long-distance moving companies in Bristol, TN

Long-distance or interstate moves include unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may come up against complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges like how to move your car.

The right moving company can help ease your concerns. We've created this list of the leading long-distance movers in Bristol so you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are a few key differences to keep in mind. Local moving companies only work within a specific geographic radius and usually charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to these jobs 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 how long a job takes. Some moving providers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to set their final cost, so it's important to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific location and potentially offer less expensive rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves is invaluable. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Bristol

Selecting the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices can feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for finding a reliable long-distance moving company in Bristol.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. We also suggest obtaining 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 an indication that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Start collecting estimates several months before your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to get itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Bristol. Ensure these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several options allows you to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what other customers have said about certain long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means movers may be harder to get and costlier if you’re moving between May and September.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that provide “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding estimates. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your entire payment upfront. Avoid moving companies that have a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to schedule your moving company well before of your move date. We advise hiring movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might choose to keep certain fragile, valuable, or sentimental items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

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

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a suitcase with items such as medications, extra clothes, and toiletries.

Finally, on the night before moving day, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some movers may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but offers better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less protection. This plan requires your moving company to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions 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. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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