10 best long-distance moving companies in Lake Ridge, VA

Long-distance or interstate moves have unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may come up against higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move your car.

Alleviate your issues by choosing the best movers for the job. We've made this guide to the best long-distance movers in Lake Ridge so you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are distinct in several ways. Local movers 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.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge by weight, while local movers more often set fees based on how long a job takes. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when setting their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Local Lake Ridge movers may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Using a long-distance moving company 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 headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Lake Ridge

Hiring the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options may be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of choosing a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Lake Ridge, we've collected some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves within the same state, inquiring about these or similar insurance options is a good idea. To better protect your possessions during the move, we suggest purchasing your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers supply clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months in advance to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. Get itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Lake Ridge. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing options as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare several options to make sure you get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what other customers have said about specific long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be challenging and more expensive to book a moving company. Since Lake Ridge is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Reliable moving companies generally won't request your complete payment upfront. If a moving company has a history of negative 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

An important tip for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough in advance. 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 or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we advise starting a month in advance. You might choose to keep certain valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Create a list of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move. The list should include items such as updating your address with the Virginia DMV.

Pack a bag with essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as toothbrushes, medications, and extra clothes.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll give you money back if any of your items are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less protection. With this option, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged items.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy after 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