10 best long-distance moving companies in Haines City, FL

Long-distance or interstate moves have their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Selecting the right moving professionals can help relieve your problems. We've created this overview of the top long-distance movers in Haines City so you, your family, and your possessions arrive to your new home without any problems.

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 be aware of. Local movers only work within a specific geographic area and often charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to these jobs at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers typically charge based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies typically charge based on the time needed for your move. Some moving companies, however, may use a combination of time and weight to calculate their prices, so it's key to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

Although local movers may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when it comes to moving from one state to another. Using 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 headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Haines City

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices can be overwhelming, making it difficult to select the right one for your move. Below, we provide some tips on how to pick a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Haines City.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, looking into these or similar insurance options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance options offered by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your belongings. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance coverage 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 mover. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers provide clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Start asking for estimates several months ahead of your move. Request detailed cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Haines City. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can pay for some of the cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We suggest researching several choices to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others think about specific long-distance movers. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and loved ones.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to get a mover. Haines City also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy due to 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. Reliable moving companies generally won't ask for your complete payment before the move. Avoid movers with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Hiring your movers well before your move date is key for a successful long-distance move. We recommend hiring movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we advise getting started a month in advance. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of all the necessary tasks both before and after your move, such as notifying the Florida DMV of your new address.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a suitcase with items such as medications, extra clothes, and toothbrushes.

The night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll reimburse you if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have 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 may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection is more expensive, it offers greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it has less protection. With this option, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged possessions.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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