10 best long-distance moving companies in Westchase, FL

Long-distance or interstate moves have their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

Put your mind at ease by picking the right movers for the job. That’s why we’ve compiled this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Westchase to help you, your family, and your possessions arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ from those that only offer local moves. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only offer services within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to set fees based on the weight of your items, while local movers are more likely to charge based on how long a job takes. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when establishing their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Local Westchase moving companies are generally more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when relocating to another state. Choosing a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Westchase

Selecting the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options can be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of picking a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Westchase, we've collected some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, looking into these or other insurance options is a good idea. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to fully protect your possessions. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance coverage 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 qualified company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have adequate time to plan your move. Ask for itemized cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Westchase. As you compare estimates, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing plans to help you afford your move. A moving or relocation loan can with expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple choices to make sure you find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what previous customers thought about particular long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. You should also ask neighbors and loved ones for recommendations.
• 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 book a moving company. Since Westchase is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that offer “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding prices. Reputable moving companies generally won't request your complete payment before the move. Avoid movers with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice for long-distance moves is to find your movers far enough in advance. It's best if you book your move at least three months beforehand. This gives you enough time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we suggest starting a month in advance. You probably have valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Making a checklist of all the things that need to be done both 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 putting together a bag with items 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 critical, as it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide money back for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but offers more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less coverage. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy after 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