10 best long-distance moving companies in McLean, VA

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in several ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues such as how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

The right movers can help ease your problems. We've created this overview of the best long-distance movers in McLean so you, your family, and your possessions get to your new home safely.

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. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only work within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers are more likely to charge by time. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Local McLean moving companies are generally more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when relocating to another state. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in McLean

When you're selecting a long-distance moving company, the wide range of options may feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for choosing a reliable long-distance moving company in McLean.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two kinds of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, ask about the options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance choices provided by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in McLean several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Make sure these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can help with expenses. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several loans allows you to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others thought about particular long-distance movers by reading 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 more expensive to hire a mover. McLean also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the summer 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 estimate is a red flag. Legitimate movers generally shouldn't request your complete payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies with an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key tip for long-distance moves is to book your movers far enough ahead of time. 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 specialized services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You probably have fragile, sentimental, or valuable items, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep 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 a bag with necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as medicine, toothbrushes, and extra clothes.

The night before moving day, don't forget to get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. While Full Value Protection costs more, it gives you more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it has less protection. If you choose this plan, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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