10 best long-distance moving companies in Lakeland, FL

There are factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

The right moving company can help ease your worries. We've made this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Lakeland so you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only offer local moves. The main distinction 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 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 moving companies are more likely to charge based on how long a job takes. However, some companies use a combination of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

Local Lakeland moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and experience, especially when moving between states. 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 Lakeland

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options may be overwhelming, making it difficult to pick the right one for your needs. To help you navigate the process of finding a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Lakeland, we've collected some guidance below.

• 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 look into these or other insurance options for long-distance moves inside one state. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to completely protect your belongings. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Lakeland several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you might need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good strategy to help pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several loans allows you to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what other customers say about specific long-distance movers. You should also ask neighbors and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be difficult and more expensive to get a moving company. Lakeland also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Trustworthy movers generally shouldn't demand your complete payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies with an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Booking your movers far enough ahead of time is extremely important when getting ready for a long-distance move. We advise scheduling movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need specialized moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we suggest starting a month beforehand. You probably have valuable, sentimental, or fragile belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

It's also a good idea to make a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Florida DMV.

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

The night before moving day, don't forget to get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers are required to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection is pricier, it provides better coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it provides reduced coverage. If you choose this option, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. 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