10 best long-distance moving companies in Eustis, FL

There are many importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may have to deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move your car.

The right movers can help put your mind at ease. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home safely, we've created this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Eustis.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only offer local moves. Local movers generally provide 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 movers more likely to set fees based on the weight. However, some companies use a mix of time and weight to set their prices, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer more affordable rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves is invaluable. Using a long-distance moving company 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 headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Eustis

Picking the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options may be overwhelming. See the list below for some tips on picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Eustis.

• 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. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can inquire about these or other insurance options. To better protect your belongings during the move, we recommend purchasing personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to supply a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start asking for quotes several months ahead of your move. Request detailed cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Eustis. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies offer financing plans. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare a few choices to make sure you choose the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what others say about certain long-distance movers. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and more expensive to get a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that provide “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding estimates. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your entire payment before the move. If a mover has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to find your moving company well before of your move date. To ensure a stress-free move, reserve your movers no less than 90 days ahead of your move date, and possibly even more if you need more unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. When it comes to fragile, valuable, or sentimental belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

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

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

The night before your big move, don't forget to get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement 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. Although Full Value Protection is pricier, it gives you better coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it gives you reduced coverage. This insurance requires your movers to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions damaged or lost 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. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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