10 best long-distance moving companies in Dunedin, FL

There are factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move your car.

The right moving company can help lessen your problems. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've created this guide to the top long-distance movers in Dunedin.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only assist with local moves. Local movers only offer services within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such requests at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local movers more often charge based on how long a job takes. Keep in mind that certain movers might use both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves can't be beaten. Hiring a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical 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 Dunedin

Choosing the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices may be overwhelming. Below, we provide some advice on how to find a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Dunedin.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can ask about these or other insurance options for long-distance moves within the same state. In addition to the insurance options carried by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance coverage in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers provide a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We advise seeking out quotes several months before your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to request itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Dunedin. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing options. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We suggest looking into several choices to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what others think about particular long-distance moving companies. You should also ask neighbors and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be challenging and costlier to book a moving company. Dunedin 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 estimate is a red flag. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your entire payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies that have a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Securing your movers well before your move date is critical for a successful long-distance move. It's best if you book your move at least three months beforehand. This gives you enough time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we suggest getting started a month beforehand. You probably have sentimental, valuable, or fragile belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Create a list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move. The list should include items such as updating your address with the Florida DMV.

Pack essentials for the first few days of your move, such as medications, toothbrushes, and extra clothes.

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 crucial for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive belongings (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 better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it has less protection. With this option, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

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

Sources

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