10 best long-distance moving companies in Morgantown, WV

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in a variety of ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

Put your mind at ease by picking the best moving professionals for the job. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home without incident, we've put together this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Morgantown.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only do local moves. Local movers usually only work within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to charge based on time. Keep in mind that certain movers might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when it comes to moving from one state to another. Choosing a long-distance mover 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 stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Morgantown

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options may feel overwhelming, making it challenging to select the right one for your move. See the list below for some recommendations on picking a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Morgantown.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, asking about these or other insurance options is a good idea. To better protect your possessions during the move, we recommend purchasing your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Morgantown several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Confirm that these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to 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 options to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what previous customers think about certain long-distance movers. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving between May and September.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Reliable movers generally shouldn't demand your complete payment upfront. If a mover has an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful tip for long-distance moves is to book your movers far enough ahead of time. It's best if you plan your move at least three months ahead of time. This gives you plenty of time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. When it comes to sentimental, valuable, or fragile belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Make a list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move. The list should include items such as updating your address with the West Virginia DMV.

Pack a bag with essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as toiletries, extra clothes, and medications.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers are required to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but offers more coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it has reduced coverage. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are lost or damaged.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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