10 best long-distance moving companies in Charlottesville, VA

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in several ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against concerns like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Lessen your problems by hiring the right movers for the job. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home without incident, we've put together this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Charlottesville.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only assist with local moves. Local moving companies only operate within a specific geographic radius and often charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to such jobs at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers usually charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies typically set fees based on the length of time required for your move. Some moving providers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to determine their rates, so it's necessary to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

Local Charlottesville 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 moving companies can save you time and headaches 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 Charlottesville

When you're choosing a long-distance mover, the wide variety of options may be overwhelming. See the list below for some advice on finding a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Charlottesville.

• 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 clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can inquire about these or similar options. To completely protect your belongings during the move, we suggest purchasing your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance coverage 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 qualified company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: We suggest asking for quotes several months ahead of your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to get detailed quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Charlottesville. Ensure these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies offer financing plans. A moving or relocation loan can with cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple options to make sure you select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others have said about certain long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and costlier to hire a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in Charlottesville, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Additionally, reliable movers won't ask for the full payment upfront. If a moving company has an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Hiring your moving company well before your move date is essential for a successful long-distance move. To ensure an easy move, secure your movers no less than three months before your move date, and potentially even more if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You might choose to keep certain fragile, sentimental, or valuable possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

To stay organized, write a detailed list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as notifying the Virginia DMV of your new address.

Put together necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as medicine, extra clothes, and toothbrushes.

The night before your move, make sure you get plenty of 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 provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. While Full Value Protection is more expensive, it offers better coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it provides reduced coverage. This insurance requires your movers to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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