10 best long-distance moving companies in Land O' Lakes, FL

There are factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Selecting the right moving professionals can help relieve your challenges. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home safely, we've compiled this guide to the best long-distance movers in Land O' Lakes.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are a few key differences to consider. 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 fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies often set fees based on the weight of your items, while local movers usually charge based on the length of time required for your move. Some movers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to set their rates, so it's necessary to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

Local Land O' Lakes moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance moving 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 Land O' Lakes

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices may feel overwhelming, making it challenging to hire the right one for your move. See the list below for some guidance on choosing a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Land O' Lakes.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, looking into these or similar insurance options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance coverage carried by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers provide a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. Get itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Land O' Lakes. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can help with expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few options to make sure you choose 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 think about particular long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be challenging and costlier to book a mover. Since Land O' Lakes is home to so many college students, June and August 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. Trustworthy movers generally won't ask for your complete payment before the move. Avoid movers with a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Hiring your moving company well before your move date is key for a successful long-distance move. To ensure an easy move, secure your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and possibly even more if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. When it comes to fragile, valuable, or sentimental items, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's 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.

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

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it gives less protection. This plan requires your moving company to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. 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