10 best long-distance moving companies in Port Charlotte, FL

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in severalimportant ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against challenges such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the right moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve made this guide to the top long-distance movers in Port Charlotte to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in several ways. Local movers typically only work within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers often set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies often set fees based on the length of time needed for your move. Certain moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when calculating their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer less expensive rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves is invaluable. Long-distance movers 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 Port Charlotte

When you're selecting a long-distance mover, the wide variety of options may be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of finding a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Port Charlotte, we've gathered some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, looking into these or other insurance options is a good idea. To completely protect your possessions during the move, we recommend purchasing personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, 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 an indication that you're working with a qualified mover. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start getting estimates several months ahead of your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to get itemized cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Port Charlotte. Make sure these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can help pay for some of the cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few options to make sure you find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what previous clients have said about specific long-distance movers. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means movers may be harder to get and costlier if you’re moving between May and September.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you cautious. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your entire payment before the move. If a moving company 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 useful piece of advice for long-distance moves is to find your movers far enough ahead of time. 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.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You might prefer to keep certain sentimental, fragile, or valuable possessions, such as plants 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.

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

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll provide reimbursement if any of your possessions are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide money back 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. Full Value Protection is more expensive but gives you more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it has less protection. With this plan, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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