10 best long-distance moving companies in West Little River, FL

There are a variety of factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by picking the right movers for the job. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive at your new home safely, we've compiled this guide to the leading long-distance movers in West Little River.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies differ in many ways. Local movers usually only offer services within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate 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 moving companies more often set fees based on time. However, some providers use a combination of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

Local West Little River moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. These companies are more likely to have the proper 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 West Little River

Picking the right long-distance moving company in West Little River requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and fits your budget. See the list below for some advice on choosing a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in West Little River.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or other options. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to fully protect your possessions. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers provide a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We suggest looking for quotes several months before your move. Request detailed cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in West Little River. As you compare estimates, ensure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing options as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can cover expenses. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several loans to make sure you find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what other customers say about certain long-distance moving companies. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to get a moving company. West Little River also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that provide “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding prices. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your entire payment before the move. If a moving company has a long history of bad 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

An important tip for long-distance moves is to find your movers far enough in advance. We advise booking your move at least three months ahead of time, or possibly earlier if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might prefer to keep certain fragile, valuable, or sentimental possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Put together a list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move. The list should include things 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 bag with items such as medicine, extra clothes, and toothbrushes.

The night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain items that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it provides less protection. With this option, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

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. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, 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