10 best long-distance moving companies in Pine Hills, FL

Long-distance or interstate moves bring unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move your car.

The right movers can help put your mind at ease. We've made this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Pine Hills so you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only offer local moves. Local movers only work within a specific geographic area and frequently charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to these jobs at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies more often set fees based on time. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Local Pine Hills 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 moving between states. Selecting a long-distance mover 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 Pine Hills

Picking the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices may be overwhelming. See the list below for some advice on choosing a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Pine Hills.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. We also suggest getting your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to supply a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in Pine Hills several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing plans to help you afford your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong option to help cover cost. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several options allows you to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what others say about particular long-distance movers. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to book and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months. Since Pine Hills is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your entire payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies that have a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to find your moving company well in advance of your move date. We suggest booking your move at least 90 days in advance, or possibly earlier if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. You might prefer to keep certain fragile, sentimental, or valuable possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

We also advise making 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.

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

Lastly, make sure to get a good night’s sleep the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if some of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. While Full Value Protection is more expensive, it provides better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less protection. This option requires your movers to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items damaged or lost 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 it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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