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

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in important 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.

Alleviate your problems by choosing the right movers for the job. We've put together this overview of the leading long-distance movers in West Pensacola so you, your loved ones, and your possessions make it to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only do local moves. Local movers only operate within a specific geographic area and often charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to these requests at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies are more likely to charge by time. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Local West Pensacola moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in West Pensacola

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options can be overwhelming, making it difficult to choose the right one for your needs. To help you navigate the process of picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in West Pensacola, we've put together some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, looking into these or similar options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance coverage provided by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in West Pensacola several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Make sure these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing options to help you pay for your move. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans 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 moving companies. You should also ask neighbors and family 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 get a mover. West Pensacola also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you wary. Additionally, legitimate moving companies won't ask for the full payment upfront. If a moving company has a long history of negative 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. We advise scheduling movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. You probably have valuable, fragile, or sentimental belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of all the necessary tasks before and after your move, such as notifying the Florida DMV of your new address.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, medications, and extra clothes.

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll provide reimbursement if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. While Full Value Protection is more expensive, it gives you more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it has less coverage. This plan requires your movers to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy when you move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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