10 best long-distance moving companies in Ashburn, VA

There are a range of importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about challenges like how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

The right movers can help ease your worries. We've made this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Ashburn so you, your family, and your possessions arrive to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only offer local moves. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only offer services within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers are more likely to charge based on how long a job takes. Keep in mind that some moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Local Ashburn moving companies are often more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and experience, especially when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Ashburn

When you're choosing a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of options can feel overwhelming. See the list below for some tips on finding a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Ashburn.

• 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 other options. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to completely protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to supply a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Ashburn several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Confirm that these estimates include 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 eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several choices allows you to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what previous clients thought about certain long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means movers may be harder to hire 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" prices should make you wary. Additionally, reliable moving companies won't demand the full payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Finding your movers far enough ahead of time is critical for a successful long-distance move. It's best if you schedule your move at least 90 days in advance. This gives you enough time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

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

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

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a suitcase with items such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, medicine, and extra clothes.

The night before your big move, remember to get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but includes greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it gives you less protection. If you choose this insurance, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are damaged or lost.

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

Sources

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