10 best long-distance moving companies in Bradenton, FL

Long-distance or interstate moves bring unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may encounter higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Alleviate your worries by choosing the right movers for the job. That’s why we’ve made this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Bradenton to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are a few key differences to keep in mind. Local movers typically only work within a certain geographic area. They'll usually charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

Local movers are also more likely to charge based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight. Some movers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to set their final cost, so it's necessary to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific location and potentially offer more affordable rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves is indispensable. 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 Bradenton

When you're selecting a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of choices may feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for picking a legitimate, reliable long-distance moving company in Bradenton.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of insurance coverage: 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 options offered by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your possessions. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to supply clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Start collecting estimates several months ahead of your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to request detailed cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Bradenton. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can help with cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise researching several options to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what other customers have said about certain long-distance movers. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and relatives.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be challenging and more expensive to hire a mover. Bradenton also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Trustworthy moving companies generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of movers that have an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

An important tip for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough in advance. We recommend hiring movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You probably have valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than in the moving truck.

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

Put together necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as extra clothes, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and medicine.

The night before your big move, don't forget to get a full night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is vital since it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it provides less protection. This insurance requires your moving company to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items lost or damaged during the move.

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

Sources

Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration