10 best long-distance moving companies in North Lauderdale, FL

Long-distance or interstate moves have their own challenges that set them apart from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the right moving professionals for the job. We've compiled this list of the leading long-distance movers in North Lauderdale so you, your loved ones, and your possessions get to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ from those that only do local moves. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only work within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant rate 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 set fees based on the weight they're moving. However, some providers use a combination of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

Local North Lauderdale moving companies are generally more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when relocating to another state. 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 North Lauderdale

Choosing the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices may be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of picking a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in North Lauderdale, we've put together some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves within the same state, inquiring about these or other insurance options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance options carried 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: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers supply customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Start collecting quotes several months ahead of your move. Get in touch with several long-distance moving providers in North Lauderdale and get itemized quotes. Estimates 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: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies offer financing plans. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help cover cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We suggest researching several loans to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what others have said about particular long-distance moving companies. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and relatives.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means movers may be harder to hire and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. North Lauderdale 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: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Trustworthy movers generally shouldn't demand your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies with an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to find your moving company well before of your move date. We suggest planning your move at least three months beforehand, or even earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. You probably have sentimental, valuable, or fragile items, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as notifying the Florida DMV of your new address.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a bag with items such as medications, extra clothes, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

The night before your move, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves because it'll give you money back if any of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer 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 might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but provides greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it has reduced coverage. If you choose this plan, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are lost or damaged.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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