10 best long-distance moving companies in East Lake, FL

There are several importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

Alleviate your issues by selecting the right moving professionals for the job. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've created this guide to the leading long-distance movers in East Lake.

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 consider. Local movers often only offer services within a certain geographic radius. They'll usually charge an exorbitant fee 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 movers more likely to charge based on the weight they're moving. Keep in mind that some moving companies might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen 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 city and potentially offer less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves is invaluable. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress 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 East Lake

Choosing the right long-distance mover is important, and the options may feel overwhelming. Below, we provide some guidance on how to find a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in East Lake.

• 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 clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is inside one state, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance coverage offered by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers 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 requiring movers to provide a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in East Lake several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing options to help you afford your move. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help cover expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend researching several loans to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others say about certain long-distance moving companies. Friends and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be challenging and more expensive to get a mover. Since East Lake is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that give you “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding prices. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment upfront. If a mover has a long history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Scheduling your moving company far enough in advance is essential when planning a long-distance move. We recommend planning your move at least three months beforehand, or possibly earlier if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You probably have valuable, fragile, or sentimental belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than in the moving truck.

We also recommend making a checklist of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Florida DMV.

Put together essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, medicine, and extra clothes.

Lastly, make sure to get enough rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some movers may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but provides better coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it has reduced coverage. This plan requires your moving company to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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