10 best long-distance moving companies in Plant City, FL

Long-distance or interstate moves include their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against concerns such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Picking the right movers can help lessen your worries. We've compiled this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Plant City so you, your family, and your belongings get to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are distinct in many ways. Local movers usually only offer services within a certain geographic radius. They'll usually charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance movers more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. However, some providers use a mix of time and weight to calculate their prices, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when moving between states. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Plant City

Picking the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options may be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of choosing a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Plant City, we've compiled some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, asking about these or other insurance options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance coverage carried by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to provide clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Start seeking out estimates several months ahead of your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to request itemized cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Plant City. Make sure these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing plans to help you pay for your move. 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 assistance for your move. Looking into several loans allows you to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what previous customers thought about particular long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be difficult and more expensive to get a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you suspicious. Reputable moving companies generally won't ask for your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of movers with a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Booking your moving company far enough ahead of time is extremely important when getting ready for a long-distance move. We advise hiring movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might prefer to keep certain valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

We also suggest 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.

Put together essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, medications, and toiletries.

The night before your move, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

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

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