10 best long-distance moving companies in Palm Coast, FL

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in a variety of ways. When you're moving between states, you may have to deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by picking the best movers for the job. We've created this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Palm Coast 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 considerably from those that only do local moves. Local moving companies only operate within a specific geographic area and often charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to these requests at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. However, some providers use a combination of time and weight to calculate their prices, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

Local Palm Coast moving companies are commonly 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. Using a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Palm Coast

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices may feel overwhelming, making it challenging to hire the right one for you. See the list below for some advice on picking a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Palm Coast.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is inside one state, inquire about the insurance options provided by your mover. To better protect your possessions during the move, we suggest getting your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in Palm Coast several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans 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 choice to help cover cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We advise researching several loans to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what other customers have said about particular long-distance movers. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be challenging and more expensive to get a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Legitimate movers generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment before the move. Steer clear of movers that have a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Hiring your moving company well before your move date is extremely important for a successful long-distance move. To ensure an easy move, secure your movers no less than 90 days ahead of your move date, and possibly even more if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You might prefer to keep certain possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of all the necessary tasks both before and after your move, such as notifying the Florida DMV of your new address.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days, such as toothbrushes, medicine, and extra clothes.

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers need to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but offers greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it provides less protection. With this option, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

If you carry over 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