10 best long-distance moving companies in Lynchburg, VA

Long-distance or interstate moves include their own challenges that set them apart from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

Lessen your worries by picking the best moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best long-distance movers in Lynchburg to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only do local moves. Local movers generally offer moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

Local movers are also more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes, while long-distance movers more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. However, some movers use a combination of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when moving between states. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Lynchburg

When you're selecting a long-distance moving company, the wide range of options may be overwhelming. See the list below for some advice on picking a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Lynchburg.

• 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 inside one state, looking into these or other options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance choices provided by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a qualified mover. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers supply a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Lynchburg several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing options to help you afford your move. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help with expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple choices to make sure you choose the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what previous clients think about certain long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to get and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that give you “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding quotes. Additionally, reputable moving companies shouldn’t request the full payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies that have an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to secure your moving company well before of your move date. To ensure a smooth move, reserve your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and possibly even more if you need more unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You probably have fragile, sentimental, or valuable items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Make a list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move. The list should include things such as updating your address with the Virginia DMV.

Pack necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, medicine, and toiletries.

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll provide reimbursement if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it has less protection. With this insurance, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. While this usually 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