10 best long-distance moving companies in Horizon West, FL

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in several ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues such as how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

Picking the right moving professionals can help ease your worries. We've compiled this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Horizon West so you, your loved ones, and your possessions get to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only assist with local moves. Local movers generally provide moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a significant fee to do so.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local movers more often charge based on time. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Local Horizon West moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and experience, especially when moving between states. Long-distance movers can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Horizon West

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options may feel overwhelming, making it challenging to pick the right one for your move. Below, we have compiled some advice on how to choose a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Horizon West.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is inside one state, inquire about the options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance options offered by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your belongings. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We suggest seeking out quotes several months before your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to get detailed cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Horizon West. As you compare quotes, ensure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help with cost. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few options to make sure you get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what other customers say about specific long-distance moving companies. You should also ask neighbors and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be difficult and costlier to get a moving company. Horizon West 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 wary of movers that offer “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding prices. Additionally, trustworthy moving companies shouldn’t ask for the full payment before the move. If a mover has a long history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Finding your moving company well before your move date is essential for a successful long-distance move. We advise booking movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. You probably have fragile, sentimental, or valuable belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than in the moving truck.

To stay organized, write a detailed list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as notifying the Florida DMV of your new address.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days of your move, such as extra clothes, toiletries, and medicine.

Finally, make sure to get enough rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers have to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it provides less coverage. This plan requires your moving company to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. While this typically 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