10 best long-distance moving companies in Hollywood, FL

There are a variety of importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against concerns such as how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Choosing the right movers can help alleviate your issues. We've created this overview of the best long-distance movers in Hollywood so you, your loved ones, and your belongings 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 many key differences to keep in mind. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only work within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local movers more often set fees based on how long a job takes. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when calculating their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local Hollywood moving companies are often more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when relocating to another state. These 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 Hollywood

When you're picking a long-distance moving company, the wide range of choices may be overwhelming. Here are some tips for picking a trustworthy long-distance mover in Hollywood.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, asking about these or similar insurance options is a good idea. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to completely protect your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance plans in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to supply a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Hollywood several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can cover cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several choices allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what previous customers say about specific long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Hollywood also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that give you “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding quotes. Reputable movers generally won't ask for your complete payment before the move. If a mover has a long history of negative 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 key piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to reserve your moving company well before of your move date. To ensure a smooth move, secure your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and potentially even more if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we recommend starting a month in advance. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as plants 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 before and after your move, such as notifying the Florida DMV of your new address.

Put together a bag with necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as medicine, extra clothes, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

The night before your move, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers have to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide money back for any items 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 costs more but gives you greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it provides less protection. With this plan, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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