10 best long-distance moving companies in Wheeling, WV

Long-distance or interstate moves include their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

The right moving company can help ease your concerns. We've made this list of the top long-distance movers in Wheeling so you, your loved ones, and your possessions make it to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in a few ways. Local movers often only offer services within a certain geographic radius. They'll usually charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. Keep in mind that certain movers might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Local Wheeling moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and experience, especially when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the proper 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 Wheeling

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices can be overwhelming, making it difficult to pick the right one for your needs. Below, we offer some guidance on how to pick a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Wheeling.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance choices offered by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance plans in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to supply clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Wheeling several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Make sure these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies have financing plans. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple loans to make sure you select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others think about particular long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and loved ones.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and more expensive to hire a moving company. Since Wheeling is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that offer “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding prices. Reputable movers generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of movers that have an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key piece of advice for long-distance moves is to find your movers far enough ahead of time. We advise scheduling movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need more specialized moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we suggest getting started a month in advance. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

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

Put together necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as toothbrushes, extra clothes, and medications.

Finally, make sure to get a full night’s sleep the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll provide reimbursement if any of your belongings are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, 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 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but offers more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it has less coverage. If you choose this plan, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy during your move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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