10 best long-distance moving companies in Arlington, VA

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in many ways. When you're moving between states, you may come up against complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Picking the right movers can help relieve your worries. We've put together this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Arlington so you, your family, and your belongings 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 many ways. Local moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers are more likely to charge based on time. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when establishing their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific location and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves is indispensable. Using 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 Arlington

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices can feel overwhelming, making it challenging to choose the right one for your needs. To help you navigate the process of choosing a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Arlington, we've compiled some advice below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage: 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 insurance options. In addition to the insurance coverage provided by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers supply a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We advise looking for quotes several months before your move. Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Arlington and ask for itemized cost breakdowns. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing options to help you afford your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several choices allows you to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others have said about certain long-distance moving companies. You should also ask friends and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be challenging and more expensive to hire a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Arlington, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you wary. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your full payment before the move. Steer clear of movers that have an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to secure your moving company well before of your move date. It's best if you schedule your move at least three months beforehand. This gives you enough time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need more specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. When it comes to fragile, sentimental, or valuable belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

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

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

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves because it'll cover the cost if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. While Full Value Protection is pricier, it offers more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it provides less protection. With this plan, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration