10 best long-distance moving companies in Miami Lakes, FL

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

Picking the right movers can help lessen your concerns. That’s why we’ve put together this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Miami Lakes to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in many ways. Local moving companies only offer services within a specific geographic radius and often charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to such requests at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to charge by time. Some moving providers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to determine their rates, so it's necessary to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when moving from one state to another. Using a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Miami Lakes

When you're picking a long-distance mover, the wide range of options may feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of picking a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Miami Lakes, we've collected some advice below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or other insurance options. In addition to the insurance choices offered by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Miami Lakes several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing plans to help you afford your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise looking into several choices to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what other customers have said about specific long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Neighbors and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Miami Lakes also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you cautious. Legitimate movers generally won't demand your complete payment upfront. Avoid moving companies with a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice for long-distance moves is to book your movers far enough in advance. We advise booking your move at least three months ahead of time, or even earlier if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

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

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

Put together a bag with necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as medicine, toiletries, and extra clothes.

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves because it'll provide reimbursement if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers need to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings 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. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less coverage. With this plan, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

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

Sources

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