10 best long-distance moving companies in Oakland Park, FL

There are a variety of importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may be dealing with complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges like how to move your car.

Picking the right moving professionals can help lessen your concerns. We've created this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Oakland Park so you, your loved ones, and your possessions get to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are several key differences to note. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only offer services within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers commonly charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers typically set fees based on the length of time required for your move. Some moving providers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to set their final cost, so it's important to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

Local Oakland Park moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and experience, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Oakland Park

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options can feel overwhelming, making it challenging to hire the right one for your move. See the list below for some guidance on finding a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Oakland Park.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, inquiring about these or similar options is a good idea. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers supply customers with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Oakland Park several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, ensure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services 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 eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several choices to make sure you find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what other clients say 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 moving companies may be harder to get and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months. Since Oakland Park is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that provide “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding estimates. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your full payment upfront. If a mover has a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable tip for long-distance moves is to reserve your movers far enough ahead of time. We suggest booking movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need specialized moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

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

Writing 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 suitcase with items such as medications, extra clothes, and toothbrushes.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is a must for long-distance moves. It'll cover the cost if any of your belongings are lost or damagedin the move.

All interstate movers need to provide 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. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. While Full Value Protection is pricier, it provides more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it gives less coverage. If you choose this insurance, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy when you move. This usually 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