10 best long-distance moving companies in Lakeside, FL

Long-distance or interstate moves include unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues like how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the best moving professionals for the job. We've made this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Lakeside so you, your family, and your belongings make it to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are different in a few ways. Local movers typically only offer services within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

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

Local Lakeside moving companies are typically more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and experience, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the relevant 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 Lakeside

Picking the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices may feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of choosing a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Lakeside, we've gathered some advice below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two kinds of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. To better protect your belongings during the move, we suggest purchasing your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to supply a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We recommend looking for quotes several months before your move. Reach out to multiple long-distance moving providers in Lakeside and ask for detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies have financing options. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. We suggest looking into several loans to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what other customers say about certain long-distance moving companies. Friends and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to hire a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that give you “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding estimates. Additionally, reputable moving companies shouldn’t request the full payment before the move. If a moving company has an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Securing your moving company far enough ahead of time is essential for a successful long-distance move. To ensure a smooth move, hire your movers no less than three months before your move date, and possibly even more if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

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

Create a list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move. The list should include things such as updating your address with the Florida DMV.

Pack necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, medicine, and toothbrushes.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain items that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. While Full Value Protection is pricier, it gives you more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it provides less protection. If you choose this insurance, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are damaged or lost.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. 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