10 best long-distance moving companies in Newport News, VA

There are importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may be dealing with higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move your car.

The right moving company can help put your mind at ease. We've made this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Newport News so you, your loved ones, and your possessions make it to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are some key differences to be aware of. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only operate 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 charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to charge based on how long a job takes. However, some companies use a combination of time and weight to calculate their prices, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves is invaluable. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Newport News

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices can be overwhelming, making it difficult to select the right one for your move. Below, we provide some tips on how to choose a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Newport News.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can ask about these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves within the same state. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed explanation 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 reputable company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to provide clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: We advise looking for quotes several months before your move. Request itemized quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Newport News. Ensure these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing plans to help you afford your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good choice to help with cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several choices allows you to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others have said about certain long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be challenging and more expensive to hire a mover. Since Newport News is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you suspicious. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your full payment before the move. Steer clear of movers with an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to secure your moving company well in advance 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 unique services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. You might prefer to have certain items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Putting together a checklist of all the things that need to be done both 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 necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and medications.

Finally, on the night before moving day, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers must provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to replace, repair, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but offers more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less coverage. With this plan, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged possessions.

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