10 best long-distance moving companies in Keystone, FL

There are a range of importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges like how to move your car.

The right moving company can help alleviate your worries. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings get to your new home safely, we've created this guide to the top long-distance movers in Keystone.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only do local moves. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only operate within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies usually charge based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies commonly charge based on the length of time needed for your move. Keep in mind that certain movers might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Local Keystone moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. 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 stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Keystone

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options can be overwhelming, making it difficult to select the right one for your move. To help you navigate the process of choosing a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Keystone, we've gathered some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is inside one state, ask about the insurance options provided by your mover. We also suggest obtaining your own moving insurance to completely protect your possessions. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers provide clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: We suggest looking for quotes several months ahead of your move. Request itemized cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Keystone. Ensure these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing plans to help you afford your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong choice to help cover expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple choices to make sure you select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what others have said about particular long-distance moving companies. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Keystone also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August 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. Additionally, reliable moving companies shouldn’t request the full payment upfront. Avoid movers that have a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to hire your moving company well before of your move date. We suggest planning your move at least 90 days beforehand, or even earlier if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. When it comes to fragile, valuable, or sentimental belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Making a checklist of all the things that need to be done 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.

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

The night before your move, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is a must for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your possessions are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but gives you more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less protection. This plan requires your moving company to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items damaged or lost during the move.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. It may be helpful to review your policy, 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