Understanding Different Types of Moving Services for Your Virginia Move

While on the hunt for your perfect moving company match, you may have come across some terms that you haven’t heard in relation to moving before, such as “local”, “intrastate”, “long-distance”, “international”, and “specialty”. It’s important that you have an understanding of these terms as they will have an effect on your move.

With such a wide variety of moving services out there, it can be a bit difficult to wrap your head around it all. This is especially true considering that Virginia has different rules in place than other states do regarding these different types of moves. That is why I have taken my knowledge as the owner of a moving company in Richmond and written this blog for HuberWilmot. With our combined experience we are able to make the complex simple.

How Are Local and Intrastate Different in Virginia?

In most states, local and intrastate are the same thing. They simply refer to any move within state lines. However, Virginia is a unique state in that there is a difference between local and intrastate moves. The separation of the two is made in the length of the move:

Local Moving: Moves Under 50 Miles

Intrastate Moving: Moves Over 50 Miles

While the separation of local and intrastate is based on distance, it’s important to understand that these moves still have to be within state lines in order to be either of these. This is particularly important if you live on the border of Virginia and another state or Washington D.C.

The main reason for the difference has to do with licensing, but you will notice that pricing is typically a bit different too. It varies from moving company to moving company, but many times local moves are charged by the hour while intrastate moves are charged by weight and distance.

Long-Distance and International Moves

While logic may tell you that international moves are a long distance, they are not technically long-distance moves. In fact, long-distance moves don’t even have to be a long distance.

Long-distance moves are known by a number of names, including interstate moves and out-of-state moves. The definition is any move that crosses state lines, but stays in the United States. Though it doesn’t happen often, even if the starting point and end point of the move are in the same state, if any point during the haul is out-of-state, it is considered long-distance.

Here in the east coast where the states aren’t very big geographically, it’s important to remember this, as you can find that moves that are a short distance are considered long-distance because they cross state lines.

International is a bit more straightforward. This is simply when you move from one country to another. Not as many moving companies offer this service, so be diligent if you’re researching moving companies for an international move.

Full-Service and Labor-Only Moving

All moves fall into one of two categories: full-service and Do-It-Yourself moves. A full-service move is one that includes a moving company handling the loading of your items into their own truck, transporting them to your new home, and unloading them. This can include, but does not always include, additional add-ons such as packing and unpacking services or warehouse storage.

Do-It-Yourself moves are ones that you handle by yourself with a van that you rent. Now, this can be done where you handle every aspect, but it is common to hire some professional help. This help is referred to as “labor-only moving” as you are only paying for the crew and not the truck from the moving company. This labor-only moving help can come in the form of loading, unloading, packing, and unpacking to name a few examples. This is a great option for those looking to get some professional help without spending as much money.

Specialty Moves

This is a unique category, mainly because it’s a category full of unique moves. Not all moving companies will handle all types of moves, which is why you will need to find those that cover specialty moves whenever you have something difficult to move.

Some common types of specialty moving services include:

• Antiques Moving
• Estate Cleanout
• Senior Moving
• Gun-Safe Moving
• Piano Moving

As you can see, these are less common situations, with most people who are moving not needing these types of services. That means that many moving companies are not expertly trained for these moves. Many will refer you to a different moving company or just say “no” to these moves. If you have a move that falls under this category, find a moving specialist that you know can handle exactly what you need.

Choosing the Right Virginia Movers

With all this info, you want to make sure you can find movers that offer the services you need. The problem? There are a lot of moving companies out there, and it can be difficult to narrow it down. Here are a few of the things to look for to streamline the research process:

• Look to see that they have the correct licenses. That means, for a long-distance move, you will have to find a mover with both a USDOT number and a Motor Carrier For local moves in Virginia, find their Local for Hire Permit. Finally, search for their Intrastate for Hire Certificate for intrastate moves.
• Get three in-depth estimates. If you only get one, you risk not knowing whether or not you are getting a fair deal. Be sure to get a few to have peace of mind in your price.
• Look for certifications and accreditations. You deserve to have your move done by experts that have a good understanding of the unique differences that come with moving in Virginia. If you want to ensure that you are partnering with an expert, search for certifications like the ProMover certification from the ATA: Moving & Storage Conference or being members of the Preferred Movers Network.

Hopefully, all of this info will point you toward a successful move. If you’re still unsure about all of these types of moving services and how they will play a role in your move, be sure to reach out to a moving representative from a moving company that you are considering. Not only will this help you get answers, but will even give you a chance to test out their customer care.