10 best long-distance moving companies in Tamiami, FL

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

The right moving company can help alleviate your concerns. We've made this overview of the top long-distance movers in Tamiami so you, your loved ones, and your possessions make it to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in several ways. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only offer services within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers more often charge based on how long a job takes. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when setting their final cost, 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. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific location and potentially offer less expensive rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves is indispensable. Choosing 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 headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Tamiami

When you're choosing a long-distance mover, the wide range of options can be overwhelming. See the list below for some recommendations on choosing a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Tamiami.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, looking into these or other options is a good idea. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to completely protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers supply a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Tamiami several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Confirm that these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong option to help with cost. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several loans allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what others have said about specific long-distance movers. Neighbors and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be difficult and costlier to get a moving company. Tamiami also has a lot of college students living in the area, so 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. Legitimate moving companies generally won't demand your complete payment upfront. If a moving company has an extensive 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 when planning a long-distance move is to schedule your moving company well before of your move date. It's best if you book your move at least three months ahead of time. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we suggest starting a month in advance. You might prefer to keep certain fragile, valuable, or sentimental items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

It's also a good idea to make a checklist of everything that needs 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, such as medicine, extra clothes, and toothbrushes.

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get plenty of 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 that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement 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 per pound) under this policy. While Full Value Protection costs more, it gives you more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it has reduced coverage. This plan requires your movers to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover 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