10 best long-distance moving companies in Columbus, OH

There are several importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

The right moving company can help relieve your problems. We've put together this list of the leading long-distance movers in Columbus so you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies differ in a few ways. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers typically charge based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies often charge based on the time needed for your move. However, some providers use a mix of time and weight to calculate their rates, 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 movers. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific city and potentially offer less expensive rates, the expertise 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 relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Columbus

When you're picking a long-distance mover, the wide range of options may feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for picking a reliable long-distance moving company in Columbus.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves inside one state. To better protect your possessions during the move, we suggest getting your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, 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. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers supply customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Start getting estimates several months ahead of your move. Request detailed cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Columbus. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing plans to help you pay for your move. A moving or relocation loan can help cover expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise looking into several choices to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what others think about particular long-distance moving companies. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to get and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Because there are so many college students living in Columbus, the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Additionally, reliable movers won't demand the full payment before the move. Avoid moving companies that have an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to find your moving company well before of your move date. We advise booking your move at least 90 days beforehand, or possibly earlier if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might choose to keep certain sentimental, valuable, or fragile possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, write a detailed list of all the necessary tasks before and after your move, such as notifying the Ohio DMV of your new address.

Pack essentials for the first few days of your move, such as toothbrushes, extra clothes, and medicine.

The night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers need to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings 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 coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it has less protection. This option requires your moving company to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy when you move. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration