10 best long-distance moving companies in Northdale, FL

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

Picking the right moving professionals can help relieve your problems. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings arrive at your new home safely, we've compiled this overview of the best long-distance movers in Northdale.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only do local moves. Local moving companies only operate within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to these jobs at all.

Local movers are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. Keep in mind that some moving companies might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific city and potentially offer less expensive rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves is indispensable. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress 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 Northdale

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the choices can feel overwhelming, making it difficult to hire the right one for your move. To help you navigate the process of choosing a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Northdale, we've collected some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, ask about the options provided by your mover. We also suggest getting your own moving insurance to better protect your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance coverage in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers supply customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: We advise asking for quotes several months ahead of your move. Get in touch with several long-distance moving providers in Northdale and request itemized quotes. Confirm that these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies have financing plans. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several choices allows you to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others thought about certain long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and costlier to get a mover. Northdale also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Additionally, reputable moving companies shouldn’t demand the full payment before the move. Steer clear of movers that have a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Finding your moving company far enough ahead of time is essential when getting ready for a long-distance move. It's best if you plan your move at least 90 days in advance. This gives you enough time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You might prefer to keep certain sentimental, valuable, or fragile possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Putting together 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, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

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

Lastly, make sure to get enough rest the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get greater coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it has less protection. This insurance requires your moving company to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings 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