10 best long-distance moving companies in Chantilly, VA

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

The right moving professionals can help relieve your issues. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings reach your new home safely, we've put together this overview of the top long-distance movers in Chantilly.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are different in many ways. Local movers usually only work within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically set fees based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on time. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when setting their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. 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 handling interstate moves is invaluable. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Chantilly

Finding the right long-distance mover in Chantilly requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. Here are some tips for finding a trustworthy long-distance moving company in Chantilly.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves within the same state, asking about these or other options is a good idea. To completely protect your belongings during the move, we recommend purchasing your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to supply a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in Chantilly several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Confirm that these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing options to help you pay for your move. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the cost. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several loans allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what previous clients thought about specific long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Also, get recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to book a mover. Chantilly also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you cautious. Legitimate movers generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of movers with a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Scheduling your movers far enough ahead of time is essential when preparing for a long-distance move. It's best if you plan your move at least three months 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 more specialized services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. When it comes to fragile, valuable, or sentimental belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Putting together a checklist of all the things that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Virginia DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by putting together a suitcase with items such as toothbrushes, extra clothes, and medications.

Finally, make sure to get enough rest the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll give you money back if any of your possessions are lost or damagedin the move.

All interstate movers are required to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. While Full Value Protection is pricier, it provides more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it provides reduced coverage. With this option, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

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

Sources

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