10 best long-distance moving companies in Fort Myers, FL

Long-distance or interstate moves include their own challenges that set them apart from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about concerns such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

The right moving company can help relieve your concerns. We've made this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Fort Myers so you, your loved ones, and your possessions arrive to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are different in many ways. Local movers only operate within a specific geographic radius and usually charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to these requests at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers are more likely to charge based on time. Keep in mind that certain movers might use both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Local Fort Myers moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the proper 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 Fort Myers

When you're hiring a long-distance mover, the wide variety of choices can be overwhelming. Here are some tips for picking a legitimate, reliable long-distance mover in Fort Myers.

• 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. You can inquire about these or other insurance options for long-distance moves inside one state. In addition to the insurance coverage offered by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your possessions. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to provide clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Fort Myers several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Confirm that these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing options. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong choice to help pay for some of the cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several choices allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about certain long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. 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 difficult and costlier to book a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Fort Myers, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• 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 cautious of a moving company that asks for your full payment upfront. If a mover has an extensive 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

Hiring your movers far enough in advance is key when preparing for a long-distance move. We suggest booking movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You probably have valuable, fragile, or sentimental belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Creating a checklist of all the things that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Florida DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

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

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves because it'll give you money back if any of your possessions are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain belongings that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it has less coverage. With this insurance, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, 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