10 best long-distance moving companies in Kingsport, TN

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in significant ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Picking the right movers can help lessen your challenges. We've made this list of the top long-distance movers in Kingsport so you, your family, and your possessions get to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are different in a few ways. Local moving companies only work within a specific geographic radius and usually charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to these requests at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies usually charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers commonly set fees based on the time needed for your move. Keep in mind that some moving companies might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Local Kingsport movers may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Kingsport

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices can be overwhelming, making it challenging to hire the right one for you. Here are some tips for finding a trustworthy long-distance moving company in Kingsport.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, look into the options provided by your mover. To better protect your possessions during the move, we recommend obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. We discuss long-distance moving insurance options in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers provide a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Kingsport several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing options to help you pay for your move. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help with cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several options allows you to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what other customers thought about particular long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. You should also ask neighbors and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be difficult and costlier to get a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your entire payment upfront. If a moving company has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your movers far enough ahead of time is extremely important when getting ready for a long-distance move. It's best if you book your move at least 90 days ahead of time. This gives you enough time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need unique services, like piano 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 prefer to keep certain possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

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

Pack essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as medications, extra clothes, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers need to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. 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 movers. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less coverage. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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