10 best long-distance moving companies in Westchester, FL

There are several importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about challenges such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Alleviate your worries by choosing the best moving professionals for the job. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings make it to your new home safely, we've created this guide to the best long-distance movers in Westchester.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are different in many ways. Local moving companies only operate within a specific geographic radius and usually charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such jobs at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on time. Some moving companies, however, may use a combination of time and weight to set their final cost, so it's necessary to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be more affordable), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when it comes to moving from one state to another. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Westchester

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options can be overwhelming, making it difficult to pick the right one for your needs. To help you navigate the process of finding a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Westchester, we've compiled some advice 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. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, inquire about the insurance options provided by your mover. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to better protect your belongings. You can find more detailed information on long-term 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 policies, such as mandating that movers provide a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months in advance to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. Ask for itemized quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Westchester. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies have financing options. A moving or relocation loan can cover cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We suggest researching several choices to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about certain long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be difficult and more expensive to get a mover. Westchester also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that give you “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding estimates. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your entire payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies with a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Finding your moving company far enough in advance is key when preparing for a long-distance move. We recommend scheduling your move at least 90 days in advance, or possibly earlier if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You might choose to keep certain sentimental, valuable, or fragile possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

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

Pack a suitcase with necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, medicine, and toothbrushes.

The night before moving day, don't forget to get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll provide reimbursement if any of your items are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable possessions (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it has less coverage. This option requires your moving company to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy after you move. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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