10 best long-distance moving companies in Norfolk, VA

Long-distance or interstate moves include their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about concerns like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Choosing the right moving professionals can help ease your issues. That’s why we’ve created this guide to the best long-distance movers in Norfolk to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are a few key differences to consider. Local movers generally offer 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 are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. However, some companies use a mix of time and weight to calculate their prices, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

Local Norfolk moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when relocating to another state. These companies 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 Norfolk

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options may be overwhelming, making it challenging to pick the right one for your needs. To help you navigate the process of picking a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Norfolk, we've collected some advice below.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of insurance coverage to their customers: 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 options carried by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to provide clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: We advise asking for quotes several months ahead of your move. Ask for detailed quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Norfolk. As you compare quotes, ensure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing options. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong choice to help with expenses. Ask 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 lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others have said about particular long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to hire a mover. Since Norfolk is home to so many college students, 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 suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Additionally, reliable movers won't ask for the full payment upfront. If a moving company has an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to secure your moving company well in advance of your move date. It's best if you book your move at least three months in advance. This gives you enough time to hire movers. 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 recommend getting started a month ahead of time. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

We also suggest making a checklist of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Virginia DMV.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a suitcase with items such as toiletries, medicine, and extra clothes.

The night before moving day, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but provides more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it provides reduced coverage. With this insurance, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged items.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. This typically 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