10 best long-distance moving companies in West Melbourne, FL

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in several ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against concerns like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Hiring the right moving professionals can help ease your challenges. That’s why we’ve put together this overview of the leading long-distance movers in West Melbourne to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it 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 a few key differences to be aware of. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only operate within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies typically charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers typically charge based on the length of time needed for your move. Keep in mind that some movers might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Local West Melbourne movers may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. 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 West Melbourne

When you're choosing a long-distance moving company, the wide range of choices may be overwhelming. See the list below for some guidance on choosing a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in West Melbourne.

• 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. Even if your long-distance move is inside one state, inquire about the options provided by your mover. To fully protect your belongings during the move, we suggest purchasing your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. 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 reputable company is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers provide a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in West Melbourne several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, ensure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies offer financing plans. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good option to help pay for some of the cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare several loans to make sure you find 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 other customers have said about particular long-distance movers. You should also ask neighbors and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to hire a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Additionally, reliable moving companies won't request the full payment upfront. Steer clear of movers with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to book your moving company well before of your move date. It's best if you schedule your move at least three months beforehand. This gives you plenty of time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we advise getting started a month beforehand. You might choose to keep certain sentimental, fragile, or valuable possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Making a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Florida DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a suitcase with items such as medications, toothbrushes, and extra clothes.

The night before your big move, don't forget to get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves because it'll cover the cost if any of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less coverage. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. It may be helpful to review your policy, 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