10 best long-distance moving companies in Ocala, FL

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

Lessen your concerns by hiring the right movers for the job. We've compiled this overview of the best long-distance movers in Ocala 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?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only do local moves. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic area. They'll usually charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies typically set fees based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies commonly charge based on the length of time needed for your move. Some movers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to calculate their prices, so it's necessary to check your provider's pricing structure.

Local Ocala moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance movers can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Ocala

Choosing the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices can be overwhelming. Below, we provide some advice on how to pick a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Ocala.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves within the same state. In addition to the insurance options offered by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a reputable company. 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: We advise asking for quotes several months before your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to get detailed cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Ocala. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing options to help you pay for your move. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help cover cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several options allows you to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what previous customers have said about particular long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, get recommendations from your friends and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Ocala 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: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your entire payment upfront. Avoid movers with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful tip for long-distance moves is to secure your movers far enough ahead of time. To ensure a smooth move, reserve your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and possibly even more if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. When it comes to valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

Making a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both 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.

Pack essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, extra clothes, and medications.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll reimburse you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Although Full Value Protection costs more, it gives you more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it provides less protection. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. While this typically 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