10 best long-distance moving companies in Tysons, VA

There are importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move your car.

Picking the right movers can help lessen your problems. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've put together this list of the top long-distance movers in Tysons.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in a few ways. Local moving companies only operate within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to these requests at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies often charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers typically set fees based on the length of time required for your move. However, some companies use a combination of time and weight to set their prices, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

Local Tysons movers may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Using a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Tysons

When you're choosing a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of choices can be overwhelming. Here are some tips for picking a trustworthy long-distance moving company in Tysons.

• 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. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, inquiring about these or other options is a good idea. To fully protect your possessions during the move, we suggest purchasing personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Tysons several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies have financing options. A moving or relocation loan can pay for some of the cost. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several choices allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what previous customers think about specific long-distance movers. You should also ask neighbors and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means movers may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Because there are so many college students living in Tysons, the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your full payment upfront. Avoid movers with a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Scheduling your movers well before your move date is essential for a successful long-distance move. It's best if you plan your move at least 90 days ahead of time. This gives you plenty of time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You might prefer to keep certain possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Writing a checklist of all the things 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.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by putting together a bag with items such as toothbrushes, medications, and extra clothes.

Finally, make sure to get plenty of rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is a must for long-distance moves. It'll give you money back if any of your items are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers are required to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it has less protection. If you choose this option, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for items 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 after you move. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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