Long Distance Moving - Coastal Furniture Delivery & Moving

Moving to a different or new state or across the country is an amazing and exciting adventure. However, it can also be tough, challenging and stressful if you don’t plan it properly. One of the most critical aspects of a successful long distance moving experience is choosing the right interstate moving company to handle the packing, transportation, and delivery of your cherished belongings.

This comprehensive guide is designed to empower you with the knowledge and steps needed to find, hire, and work with the ideal long-distance moving company for your needs.

How to Find an Interstate or Long Distance Moving Company

Before you embark on your quest to find the perfect moving company, it’s essential to understand that not all movers are created equal. Some specialize in long-distance moves, often referred to as interstate moves, while others focus solely on local or in-state relocations.

When searching for a long-distance mover, reliability and reputation should be your top priorities. Start by seeking recommendations from trusted sources such as friends, family, and real estate professionals who have had positive experiences. You can also read online reviews and visit websites like Angi to identify reputable residential movers.

Preparation Before Hiring a Long Distance Mover

While seeking a reliable moving company, you must also consider your budget. Interstate local movers typically base their quotes on the weight of your belongings, so it’s crucial to obtain quotes and service details from at least three different companies to make an informed decision.

Plan Your Move

Before moving companies can provide you with accurate quotes, they will need detailed information about the items you plan to move. Take inventory of your possessions and create a list that will help you answer their questions during the initial contact. Later in the process, the moving company may schedule an in-person inventory or request a video tour of your belongings. If your move is related to work, make sure to provide your employer or relocation company with an inventory list to facilitate the selection of a suitable moving company.

Declutter and Lighten Your Load

The cost of hiring movers depends on various factors, including the number of rooms, oversized items (like pianos), and whether you opt for a full-service move that includes packing, delivery, and unpacking. To minimize costs, it’s essential to declutter your belongings by donating, recycling, or disposing of items you no longer need.

Inform Movers About Location Challenges

It’s crucial to inform your chosen moving company about any physical challenges they may encounter on moving day. Details such as the doorways, narrow hallways and the number of stairs, as well as parking challenges such as overhead power lines, or small streets that are close to the truck’s parking spot, should be communicated upfront. Transparency about these challenges will help you avoid unexpected charges in your final quote.

Request an In-Person Estimate

After decluttering and formulating a moving plan, consider asking your top moving company choices to schedule an in-person estimate. This step provides the most accurate pricing information and ensures that there are no surprises on moving day.

Check the Qualifications of Your Chosen Moving Company

To gain deeper insights into the background of interstate moving companies, consult the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) website. Here, you can access records related to insurance, registration, and the company’s complaint history. If you have any lingering doubts about their business practices, do not hesitate to contact the company for clarifications.

Questions to Ask Your Moving Company

To build confidence in your selected moving company, don’t shy away from asking pertinent questions. The following queries can guide your discussions:

Do they subcontract any work to other long distance moving services?
What measures do they take to protect fragile items during transit?
What level of training do their workers receive for packing and moving?
Do they offer full-value protection or alternative liability insurance coverage for potential damage?
What is their reimbursement policy?
How do they calculate fees: by the hour or a flat rate?
Do they have experience handling valuable collectibles?

How To Find The Best Interstate or Long Distance Moving Company

Interstate or long distance moving companies operate differently from their local counterparts, and that’s why it’s essential to inquire about company policies, long-distance estimates, and details regarding the bill of lading (the contract between you and the moving company like Coastal Furniture Delivery & Moving).

Interview Your Chosen Mover

Throughout the selection process, you will likely engage in multiple conversations with your preferred moving companies regarding factors such as total weight and pricing. Once you’ve identified your top choice, consider scheduling a final interview to discuss fine details. This is also an opportunity to address aspects you may not have previously considered, such as:

Employee background checks
The number of packers assigned each day
Stops at interstate weigh stations
Procedures for handling weather and traffic delays
What to expect on pick-up and delivery days

Obtain an Estimate

Most moving companies in Myrtle Beach offer three types of estimates: non-binding, non-binding to exceed, and binding. Before signing an official contract, ensure that it includes accurate information about fees, rates, potential overage charges, and an inventory sheet. Having this official documentation on hand will be invaluable in case you need to file a claim in the future.

Non-binding estimate: The final cost may fluctuate based on the actual weight of your belongings. If the initial estimate is lower than the final weight, you’ll pay the original estimate plus up to 10% for any excess weight.
Non-binding to exceed estimate: Often used for long-distance moves, this estimate ensures you won’t pay more than the initial quote. If your shipment weighs less than the estimate, you’ll only be charged for the actual weight.
Binding estimate: This estimate offers a fixed fee based on the estimated weight of your belongings. You won’t incur overage charges, but you won’t receive a discount if the shipment ends up weighing less.

Maintain Detailed Records

The bill of lading is a crucial document throughout your move. It serves as a reference point in case of missing items, changes in weight estimates, or damage claims. Before signing it, ensure that all details are accurate. The moving process cannot commence until you’ve signed this document. Your bill of lading should contain:

The moving company’s contact information, including any subcontractors used.
Your contact information and both pick-up and delivery addresses.
Identification numbers for the moving trucks and vans.
Information on the moving company’s services and rates, including any special items requiring additional packing materials.
A payment schedule with terms and conditions, specifying payment methods, minimum charges, additional fees, and deadlines.
Details about moving insurance.
Information regarding the chosen type of estimate (binding, non-binding, or non-binding to exceed).
Instructions for handling situations where the long distance moving experts are delayed.

Identify Red Flags and Prepare for Troubleshooting

Be vigilant for common red flags within the moving industry, as doing so can save you time and money. Some warning signs include multiple name changes in a company’s history, which may indicate an attempt to evade previous complaints.

If you have concerns, ask for more information about their licensing and insurance. Additionally, exercise caution if a long distance moving company requests a substantial upfront payment; using a credit card can protect you from potential fraud.

After Your Move is Complete

Once your move is successfully completed, consider leaving reviews to assist others in finding trustworthy movers in Myrtle Beach. If your experience with the moving company was positive, you might also want to offer a testimonial or provide your contact information to serve as a reference for future clients. Should any issues have arisen during the long distance moving process, refer to your bill of lading for guidance on the claims process, ensuring that your concerns are addressed appropriately.