10 best long-distance moving companies in Coral Gables, FL

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in significant ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with challenges such as how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Alleviate your issues by picking the best moving professionals for the job. We've created this list of the top long-distance movers in Coral Gables so you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

Long-distance movers are also more likely to set fees based on the weight of your items, while local movers are more likely to charge by time. Certain moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when establishing their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local Coral Gables moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when relocating to another state. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Coral Gables

Hiring the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices may feel overwhelming. See the list below for some tips on choosing a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Coral Gables.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. We also suggest getting your own moving insurance to completely protect your possessions. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to supply a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Coral Gables several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Confirm that these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies offer financing plans. A moving or relocation loan can help pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several loans allows you to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about certain long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. You should also ask friends and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be challenging and costlier to hire a moving company. Coral Gables also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you cautious. Reliable moving companies generally won't demand your complete payment before the move. Steer clear of movers that have a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to reserve your moving company well before of your move date. It's best if you schedule your move at least three months beforehand. This gives you plenty of time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we recommend getting started a month ahead of time. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

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

Put together a suitcase with essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as medications, extra clothes, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers must offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. Although Full Value Protection is more expensive, it offers more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less coverage. If you choose this option, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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