10 best long-distance moving companies in Sarasota, FL

Long-distance or interstate moves include their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues like how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

Picking the right moving professionals can help alleviate your problems. That’s why we’ve created this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Sarasota to help you, your family, and your possessions arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are many key differences to consider. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to charge based on time. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when setting their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Local Sarasota moving companies are generally more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when relocating to another state. These companies are more likely to have the relevant 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 Sarasota

Choosing the right long-distance mover in Sarasota requires research to make sure the company meets your needs and fits your budget. To help you navigate the process of finding a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Sarasota, we've gathered some recommendations below.

• 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. You can ask about these or similar options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. In addition to the insurance coverage carried by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance choices 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 company. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to supply clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months in advance to ensure you have adequate time to plan your move. Get detailed cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Sarasota. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing options. A moving or relocation loan can cover cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend looking into several options to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what others think about particular long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be challenging and more expensive to book a moving company. Sarasota also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that give you “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding estimates. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your entire payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies with a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Scheduling your moving company far enough ahead of time is critical when planning a long-distance move. To ensure a stress-free move, reserve your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and potentially even more if you need specific services, like piano moving 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 sentimental, valuable, or fragile items, such as artwork 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 both 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 medicine, extra clothes, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

The night before your big move, remember to get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves because it'll provide reimbursement if any of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less coverage. With this insurance, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy when you move. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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