10 best long-distance moving companies in Lutz, FL

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

Picking the right movers can help ease your challenges. That’s why we’ve compiled this overview of the top long-distance movers in Lutz to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

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 be aware of. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only operate within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when setting their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves is indispensable. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Lutz

Hiring 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 mover in Lutz, we've gathered 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. Even if your long-distance move is inside one state, look into the options provided by your mover. To completely protect your belongings during the move, we suggest purchasing your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. You can find more detailed information on long-term 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 an indication that you're working with a qualified mover. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers provide a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months in advance to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to ask for itemized quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Lutz. Make sure these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing plans to help you pay for your move. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help cover expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise researching several choices to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others have said about particular long-distance moving companies. You should also ask friends and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be difficult and costlier to book a mover. Since Lutz is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Reputable movers generally shouldn't demand your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of movers with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful tip for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough in advance. To ensure an easy move, secure your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and possibly even more if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. When it comes to fragile, sentimental, or valuable items, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

We also suggest making a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Florida DMV.

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

The night before moving day, remember to get a good night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll cover the cost if any of your items are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain possessions that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection costs more but offers more coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it has reduced coverage. This insurance requires your moving company to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy during your move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration