10 best long-distance moving companies in West Palm Beach, FL

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in many ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with challenges such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Choosing the right movers can help relieve your issues. We've created this guide to the best long-distance movers in West Palm Beach so you, your loved ones, and your possessions get to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only assist with local moves. Local movers generally offer moving services within a designated geographic radius. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on time. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when setting their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local West Palm Beach 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. Long-distance movers 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 Palm Beach

When you're picking a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of options may feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of choosing a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in West Palm Beach, we've collected some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, asking about these or other options is a good idea. We also suggest obtaining your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Start asking for quotes several months ahead of your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to ask for itemized quotes from several long-distance movers in West Palm Beach. 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: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies offer financing plans. A moving or relocation loan can cover cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We suggest researching several choices to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what other clients thought about certain long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. You should also ask neighbors and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be difficult and costlier to hire a mover. Since West Palm Beach is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that give you “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding prices. Additionally, legitimate moving companies won't request the full payment upfront. If a moving company has a long history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Finding your moving company far enough ahead of time is critical for a successful long-distance move. To ensure a smooth move, reserve your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and possibly even more if you need specific services, like piano 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 items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

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

Pack a bag with necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as medications, extra clothes, and toiletries.

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is a necessity 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 settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. While Full Value Protection is pricier, it offers more coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it has reduced coverage. 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 partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy when you move. It may be helpful to review your policy, 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