10 best long-distance moving companies in Collierville, TN

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in a variety of ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move your car.

Choosing the right moving professionals can help relieve your worries. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Collierville to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

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 consider. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic area. They'll usually charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when setting their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Local Collierville moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and experience, especially when relocating to another state. Hiring a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Collierville

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options may feel overwhelming, making it difficult to pick the right one for your needs. See the list below for some advice on choosing a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Collierville.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can inquire about these or other insurance options for long-distance moves within the same state. We also suggest obtaining your own moving insurance to better protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed explanation 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 qualified company is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers provide a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start asking for estimates several months ahead of your move. Ask for detailed cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Collierville. As you compare estimates, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you might need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can help pay for some of the cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several choices allows you to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what others say about specific long-distance movers. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to get and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that provide “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding estimates. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your entire payment before the move. If a moving company has a long history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Booking your moving company far enough in advance is critical for a successful long-distance move. We recommend hiring movers at least 90 days 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 on your own, we recommend getting started a month ahead of time. You might choose to keep certain sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

We also recommend making a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move, 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 bag with items such as toothbrushes, extra clothes, and medications.

The night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

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

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. This typically 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