10 best long-distance moving companies in Miramar, FL

Long-distance or interstate moves have unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against concerns such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

The right movers can help put your mind at ease. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've compiled this list of the top long-distance movers in Miramar.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies differ in a few ways. Local movers typically only work within a certain geographic radius. They'll usually charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to charge based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight. Some moving companies, however, may use a combination of time and weight to determine their final cost, so it's necessary to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Local Miramar moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Miramar

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in Miramar requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. Below, we have compiled some advice on how to choose a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Miramar.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can inquire about these or similar insurance options. In addition to the insurance coverage provided by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to provide a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Miramar several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options 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 strong strategy to help with cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare several loans to make sure you 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 previous customers have said about particular long-distance movers. You should also ask neighbors and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be difficult and more expensive to book a moving company. Miramar also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that offer “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding quotes. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your entire payment before the move. If a mover has an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to book your moving company well in advance of your move date. To ensure a stress-free move, book your movers no less than three months before your move date, and potentially 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. You probably have valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than in the moving 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 a suitcase with necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, extra clothes, and medications.

Lastly, make sure to get a good night’s sleep the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is critical because it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers need to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable possessions (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. Although Full Value Protection is pricier, it gives you greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it has less protection. If you choose this plan, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are damaged or lost.

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