10 best long-distance moving companies in Winter Garden, FL

Long-distance or interstate moves have unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the best movers for the job. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings arrive at your new home safely, we've created this overview of the best long-distance movers in Winter Garden.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only offer local moves. Local movers typically only offer services within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge by weight, while local moving companies more often set fees based on how long a job takes. Some moving companies, however, may use a combination of time and weight to set their prices, so it's important to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Although local movers may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when moving from one state to another. Selecting a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical 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 Winter Garden

Finding the right long-distance moving company in Winter Garden requires research to make sure the company meets your needs and fits your budget. Below, we have compiled some guidance on how to pick a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Winter Garden.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance coverage offered by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your belongings. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers supply customers with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Start asking for quotes several months ahead of your move. Reach out to multiple long-distance moving providers in Winter Garden and get detailed cost breakdowns. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can cover cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several choices allows you to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what other customers think about certain long-distance movers. You should also ask neighbors and relatives 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 to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to get a mover. Winter Garden also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Additionally, reputable moving companies shouldn’t ask for the full payment upfront. Avoid movers that have a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to schedule your moving company well before of your move date. To ensure a smooth move, schedule your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and potentially even more if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we suggest starting a month beforehand. When it comes to valuable, sentimental, or fragile belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

We also recommend making a checklist of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Florida DMV.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days of your move, such as toothbrushes, extra clothes, and medications.

Finally, make sure to get a good night’s sleep the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll reimburse you if any of your possessions are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must 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. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection costs more, it offers better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it has less protection. If you choose this plan, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are lost or damaged.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your 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