10 best long-distance moving companies in Estero, FL

There are many factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

Put your mind at ease by picking the right moving professionals for the job. We've put together this overview of the best long-distance movers in Estero so you, your family, and your belongings arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ from those that only offer local moves. Local moving companies generally offer moving services within a designated geographic radius. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a significant fee to do so.

Local movers are also more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight they're moving. Some movers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to calculate their final cost, so it's key to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Local Estero moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance moving 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 Estero

Picking the right long-distance moving company in Estero requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. To help you navigate the process of choosing a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Estero, we've gathered some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, inquiring about these or other insurance options is a good idea. To completely protect your belongings during the move, we recommend purchasing 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 explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Estero several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies offer financing options. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several options to make sure you choose the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what other clients have said about specific long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Friends and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to get a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in Estero, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you cautious. Additionally, legitimate moving companies won't demand the full payment upfront. If a mover has a long history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough ahead of time. To ensure a stress-free move, secure your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and possibly even more 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 prefer to have certain items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed 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.

Pack necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as extra clothes, medicine, and toiletries.

Lastly, make sure to get enough rest the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but gives you better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it has less coverage. This option requires your moving company to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. 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