5 best long-distance moving companies in Jackson, TN

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in several 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.

Selecting the right moving professionals can help ease your problems. That’s why we’ve made this list of the best long-distance movers in Jackson to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are different in a few ways. Local moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic radius. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

Local movers are also more likely to charge based on time, while long-distance movers more likely to charge based on the weight they're moving. However, some providers use a combination of time and weight to calculate their rates, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

Local Jackson moving companies are generally more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when relocating to another state. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Jackson

When you're choosing a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of choices may feel overwhelming. Below, we offer some guidance on how to choose a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Jackson.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage types: 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 insurance options. We also suggest getting your own moving insurance to better protect your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance plans in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers supply customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Jackson several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing options to help you pay for your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong option to help with cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Researching 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 other platforms to learn what previous customers have said about certain long-distance movers. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to book and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you suspicious. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your entire payment upfront. If a mover has an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful tip for long-distance moves is to secure your movers far enough ahead of time. We recommend scheduling your move at least three months beforehand, or possibly earlier if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. When it comes to sentimental, valuable, or fragile items, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of all the necessary tasks before and after your move, such as notifying the Tennessee DMV of your new address.

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

Finally, make sure to get a full night’s sleep the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is key, 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. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide money back 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. Although Full Value Protection is more expensive, it gives you more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it gives less coverage. If you choose this plan, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy after you move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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