10 best long-distance moving companies in Harrisonburg, VA

There are several importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns such as how to move your car.

The right movers can help relieve your problems. That’s why we’ve created this guide to the best long-distance movers in Harrisonburg to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it safely to your new home.

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 offer services within a specific geographic radius and usually charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to such jobs at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers often charge based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies often set fees based on the length of time required for your move. However, some movers use a combination of time and weight to calculate their rates, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

Local Harrisonburg moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Harrisonburg

When you're choosing a long-distance mover, the wide range of options can be overwhelming. See the list below for some advice on finding a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Harrisonburg.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, asking about these or similar options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance options carried by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your possessions. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers provide a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Harrisonburg several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, ensure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies have financing options. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help with cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend researching several choices to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others have said about specific long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and costlier to book a mover. Harrisonburg also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Additionally, trustworthy movers shouldn’t request the full payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies that have an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your moving company well before your move date is key for a successful long-distance move. To ensure a smooth move, schedule your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and potentially even more if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You might choose to keep certain sentimental, fragile, or valuable possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Putting together 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, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

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

The night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers have to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but gives you greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it gives less coverage. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy when you move. This usually 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