10 best long-distance moving companies in Woodlawn, VA

Long-distance or interstate moves have unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with challenges like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Choosing the right moving professionals can help alleviate your problems. We've compiled this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Woodlawn so you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive 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 a few key differences to keep in mind. Local moving companies generally offer moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

Local moving companies are also more likely to charge based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. However, some companies use a combination of time and weight to calculate their prices, so be sure to ask 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. While 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 taking on interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance movers can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Woodlawn

Finding the right long-distance mover in Woodlawn requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. To help you navigate the process of choosing a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Woodlawn, we've compiled some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage types: 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. We also suggest obtaining your own moving insurance to completely protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers supply clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Woodlawn several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Confirm that these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing options to help you pay for your move. A moving or relocation loan can help with cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare a few loans to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what other clients think about certain long-distance movers. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be difficult and costlier to book a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Woodlawn, the beginning and end of the semesters 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, trustworthy movers shouldn’t ask for the full payment before the move. If a moving company has an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Finding your movers far enough in advance is critical for a successful long-distance move. It's best if you schedule your move at least three months in advance. This gives you enough time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You might prefer to keep certain sentimental, valuable, or fragile items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Make a list of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move. The list should include things such as updating your address with the Virginia DMV.

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

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is a must for long-distance moves. It'll cover the cost if any of your items are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain belongings that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. While Full Value Protection is more expensive, it offers greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it has less coverage. With this plan, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged possessions.

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. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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