10 best long-distance moving companies in DeLand, FL

Long-distance or interstate moves present unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move your car.

The right movers can help put your mind at ease. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings make it to your new home safely, we've compiled this overview of the top long-distance movers in DeLand.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only do local moves. Local movers generally provide moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

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. However, some movers use a mix of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be more affordable), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in DeLand

Selecting the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices can be overwhelming. See the list below for some recommendations on picking a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in DeLand.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is inside one state, inquire about the options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance coverage provided by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance plans in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to provide customers with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in DeLand several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies have financing plans. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good strategy to help pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare a few loans to make sure you select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what others say about specific long-distance moving companies. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to get and costlier if you’re moving between May and September.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you cautious. Reliable moving companies generally shouldn't demand your complete payment before the move. If a mover has a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Finding your moving company far enough ahead of time is essential when planning a long-distance move. To ensure an easy move, book your movers no less than 90 days ahead of your move date, and possibly even more if you need more unique services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. You probably have valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, prepare a detailed list of all the necessary tasks both before and after your move, such as notifying the Florida DMV of your new address.

Put together a bag with essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as extra clothes, toothbrushes, and medicine.

Lastly, make sure to get a full night’s sleep the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

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

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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