10 best long-distance moving companies in Cleveland, TN

There are several factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Lessen your issues by picking the right movers for the job. We've compiled this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Cleveland so you, your loved ones, and your possessions arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies differ in a few ways. Local movers typically only operate within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on time. Some moving providers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to determine their rates, so it's necessary to check your provider's pricing structure.

Local Cleveland moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the proper 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 Cleveland

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options can feel overwhelming, making it challenging to choose the right one for your needs. See the list below for some tips on finding a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Cleveland.

• 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 clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or other options. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to completely protect your possessions. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Cleveland several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing options. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good strategy to help cover cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans 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: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what previous customers have said about certain long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be challenging and more expensive to hire a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Cleveland, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you suspicious. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your entire payment before the move. Avoid moving companies with an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice for long-distance moves is to book your movers far enough ahead of time. We advise scheduling your move at least 90 days ahead of time, or possibly earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

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

It's also a good idea to make a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Tennessee DMV.

Put together a bag with essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as toothbrushes, extra clothes, and medications.

The night before moving day, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection is pricier, it provides greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it has less coverage. This insurance requires your moving company to compensate 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. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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