10 best movers in Kingsport, Tennessee

The best moving company for moving out of Tennessee is International Van Lines. If you're moving around Kingsport, use the filters below to find other local moving companies.

Long-distance movers in Kingsport

A long-distance move means relocating more than 50 miles away or from one state to another. Check that the moving company you hire has the necessary federal licensing when crossing state boundaries. Interstate movers are required to have United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. You can use the USDOT number, MC number or mover's name to look up a carrier’s licensing status in the FMCSA’s database.

The reliable and experienced long-distance moving services below are actively licensed. They can help get you and your belongings safely and smoothly across state lines.

Featured

4.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Includes one month of storage with long-distance moves
• Lists add-on service costs online
• Services all 50 states

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4.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Operates exclusively as a carrier
• Runs shuttles for moves between major cities
• Offers storage for high-value items and antiques

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3.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Offers flat rates for all long-distance moves
• Has secure storage facilities with 24/7 surveillance
• Includes packing and storage in all quotes

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Why is moving so expensive?

While moving can be an expensive process, the average hourly rate for moving services in Kingsport is lower than the national average. You may be able to take advantage of lower moving prices based on the cost of living in Kingsport, which is lower than 79% of the country.

Moving costs add up quickly depending on what services you need. The following are common moving expenses:

• Packing
• Junk removal
• Professional labor
• Storage
• Supplies
• Fuel

Your total moving cost may also be affected by these extra factors:

Transporting specialty items

Professional movers may charge more to move certain items, especially those that are breakable, valuable or particularly large. Some items that can cost more to move include the following:

• Pianos
• Safes
• Family heirlooms or antiques
• Heavy pieces of furniture or technology
• Artwork and sculptures

If you need to move any of these items, ask potential movers whether they charge additional fees for them.

Tipping your movers

Tipping your movers is optional but common if they take good care of your belongings or make your move easier. Consider tipping each mover $5–$10 per hour for local moves and $20–$40 per day for long-distance moves.

Unexpected delays

It's common for a move to be delayed due to issues such as transportation emergencies, inclement weather, traffic and a lack of supplies. These can increase your moving costs and extend your timeline. You can't avoid unexpected delays, but you can prepare for them by being flexible with your schedule and budgeting 25% more than your movers quote you.

How to save money on moving costs

The following tips can save you money on moving in Kingsport.

Be communicative

Avoid surprise charges the day of your move by being as communicative with your movers as possible. Inform them of additional items that weren’t included in the initial inventory you gave the movers.

While your movers can usually accommodate small items without a problem, larger pieces such as new appliances or furniture should be discussed ahead of time. The movers may need to adjust their charges for these additions, and they’ll need your consent to these fees before starting the move.

Have a flexible schedule

Since reliable and affordable movers are highly sought after, consider moving on a weekday or in the off-season to save some money while still getting your preferred moving team.

Movers are busiest from May through September. If your timeline is flexible, moving during slower months may result in lower rates or less competitionfor services.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

If you have difficulty finding a budget - friendly moving company that meets your needs, there are alternative routes you can take.

While you can move on your own, consider the amount of labor required and the following costs:

• Fuel
• Moving truck rental
• Packing supplies

You may also need to get help from friends, family or neighbors for loading and unloading large or heavy items such as furniture. If you lack the time or support system needed for a self-move, employing movers is valuable.

Another option is to hire movers on service marketplaces such as Thumbtack or Fiverr. Hiring hourly help can be less expensive, but freelance service providers may not have proper licensing or insurance.

FAQ about moving in Kingsport

What’s full-service moving?

Full-service moving is when your movers tackle the entire moving process for you. They supply packing materials, pack your belongings, transport them and unpack them.

Full-service moving is more expensive than services that only include loading and transporting your belongings, but it can be worth the extra cost considering the time, labor and packing materials you'll save. Full-service moving may also provide better insurance coverage. Self-packed items are generally only covered for up to 60 cents per dollar, and damage claims for these goods can be challenging to get approved.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

Legitimate moving companies will show proof of registration on all trucks, documents and facilities. Interstate moves mandate USDOT and MC numbers, so be sure to vet their registration thoroughly before hiring movers by visiting the official FMCSA website. Moving companies in Tennessee are also required to have a license from the Tennessee Department of Revenue.

How does moving insurance work?

Estimate the full worth of your belongings to accurately choose the most suitable insurance policy. Every moving company will offer released-value coverage, which protects your goods at a rate of 60 cents per pound per item. Adding this extra coverage will cost more, but may be worth it if you're moving costly or irreplaceable items.

When is the best time of year to move?

The warmer months between May to September is the best time to move. This results in a limited supply of available moving companies, and higher costs for moves of all sizes. The steep seasonal prices may prevent you from choosing a summer move.

We recommend moving in the spring or early fall seasons when you can expect more favorable weather and lower costs.

What things should I leave to the movers, and what should I transport myself?

To be safe, keep important financial records, keepsakes and identification documents in your personal car. We also recommend keeping expensive technology with you while moving.

Many moving companies limit insurance coverage for high-value items, such as jewelry and heirlooms. If you're worried about possible loss or damage, keep those priceless or irreplaceable belongings in your own car.

Most movers refuse to transport certain items, including the following:

• Flammable chemicals of any kind
• Toxic chemicals or cleaners
• Plants
• Aerosols
• Fuel sources
• Perishable foods and produce
• Batteries
• Fertilizers
• Compressed tanks or gas

Our methodology for selecting moving companies

The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.

We review national moving providers against our full moving methodology. We score movers based on reputation and customer experience, service availability, cost and pricing practices, insurance options, customer service and communication.