10 best long-distance moving companies in Sunny Isles Beach, FL

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

The right moving company can help put your mind at ease. We've created this guide to the top long-distance movers in Sunny Isles Beach so you, your loved ones, and your possessions make it to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only assist with local moves. Local movers usually only work within a certain geographic area. They'll usually charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

Local movers are also more likely to charge based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight they're moving. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when calculating their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local Sunny Isles Beach moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and experience, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Sunny Isles Beach

Selecting the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices can feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of choosing a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Sunny Isles Beach, we've collected some advice 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. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or other insurance options. To completely protect your belongings during the move, we recommend obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months in advance to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. Ask for detailed quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Sunny Isles Beach. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies have financing options. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help with cost. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise looking into several loans to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what other clients have said about particular long-distance movers. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and relatives.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and costlier to get a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in Sunny Isles Beach, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you wary. Reputable moving companies generally won't demand your complete payment upfront. Avoid movers that have a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Finding your movers far enough in advance is key when preparing for a long-distance move. To ensure a smooth move, reserve your movers no less than three months before your move date, and potentially even more if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. When it comes to sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as notifying the Florida DMV of your new address.

Pack necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as toothbrushes, medications, and extra clothes.

The night before moving day, remember to get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is critical since it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. While Full Value Protection costs more, it provides better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it provides less coverage. This plan requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items damaged or lost 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. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, 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