10 best long-distance moving companies in Citrus Park, FL

There are importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about concerns like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the right moving professionals for the job. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings make it to your new home without incident, we've put together this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Citrus Park.

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 be aware of. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only operate within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to charge based on time. Some movers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to calculate their rates, so it's key to check your provider's pricing structure.

Local Citrus Park moving companies are generally more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and experience, especially when moving between states. Selecting a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Citrus Park

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices may be overwhelming, making it challenging to choose the right one for you. Below, we provide some recommendations on how to choose a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Citrus Park.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, looking into these or similar options is a good idea. To better protect your possessions during the move, we suggest getting your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We recommend looking for quotes several months ahead of your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to ask for itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Citrus Park. As you compare estimates, ensure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend researching several options to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what others think about certain long-distance moving companies. You should also ask friends and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Because there are so many college students living in Citrus Park, the beginning and end of the semesters 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. Reputable movers generally shouldn't request your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies that have an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to find your moving company well in advance of your move date. We suggest booking your move at least 90 days in advance, or possibly earlier if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

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

Putting together a checklist of all the things that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Florida DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Pack a suitcase with essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, extra clothes, and medications.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers have to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some movers may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it has reduced coverage. If you choose this plan, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy when you move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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