10 best long-distance moving companies in Wesley Chapel, FL

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

Put your mind at ease by picking the best moving professionals for the job. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings arrive at your new home without incident, we've put together this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Wesley Chapel.

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 note. Local moving companies only operate within a specific geographic area and often charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such jobs at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to charge by time. Some movers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to determine their final cost, so it's necessary to check your provider's pricing structure.

Local Wesley Chapel moving companies are often more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when moving between states. 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 headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Wesley Chapel

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices may be overwhelming, making it challenging to select the right one for your needs. Here are some tips for picking a legitimate long-distance moving company in Wesley Chapel.

• 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 that don't cross state lines, looking into these or other options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance options carried by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance coverage in more detail 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 mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to provide a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Wesley Chapel several months before your move and get detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing plans to help you afford your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good choice to help cover expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend looking into several choices to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what other customers say about certain long-distance movers. Friends and relatives 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. Wesley Chapel also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you suspicious. Reputable moving companies generally won't ask for your complete payment upfront. Avoid moving companies that have a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Booking your movers well before your move date is critical when getting ready for a long-distance move. We suggest scheduling movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need more specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we recommend starting a month beforehand. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

It's also important to make 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.

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

The night before moving day, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it gives less protection. With this plan, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy during your move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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