10 best long-distance moving companies in Roanoke, VA

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in a variety of ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by picking the best movers for the job. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home safely, we've put together this overview of the best long-distance movers in Roanoke.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

Local moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance movers more likely to charge based on the weight. Certain moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when setting their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

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

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Roanoke

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices can be overwhelming, making it challenging to choose the right one for your needs. To help you navigate the process of picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Roanoke, we've compiled 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 clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, inquire about the options provided by your mover. To better protect your belongings during the move, we recommend obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers supply customers with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Start seeking out quotes several months ahead of your move. Contact multiple long-distance moving providers in Roanoke and get itemized cost breakdowns. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies have financing plans. A moving or relocation loan can help pay for some of the cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend researching several choices to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what other customers have said about certain 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 costlier to hire a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Roanoke, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you wary. Reliable moving companies generally won't demand your complete payment upfront. Avoid movers with an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable piece of advice for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough ahead of time. To ensure an easy move, hire your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need more unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might choose to keep certain fragile, sentimental, or valuable items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Making a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done 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.

Put together necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, medications, and toiletries.

The night before moving day, remember to get a good night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

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

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