10 best long-distance moving companies in Florissant, MO

There are several factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

Put your mind at ease by choosing the right moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve created this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Florissant to help you, your family, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are a few key differences to be aware of. Local moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to charge by time. Keep in mind that some moving companies might use both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Local Florissant moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when relocating to another state. 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 stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Florissant

Hiring the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options may feel overwhelming. Below, we offer some advice on how to find a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Florissant.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. To better protect your possessions during the move, we suggest obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. We discuss long-distance moving insurance coverage in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to provide customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in Florissant several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing plans to help you afford your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We suggest looking into several choices to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what others say about certain long-distance movers. 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 costlier to get a mover. Since Florissant is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that provide “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding estimates. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your entire payment before the move. Avoid moving companies with a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

An important tip for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough in advance. We suggest scheduling your move at least three months ahead of time, or even earlier if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Writing a checklist of all the things that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Missouri 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 packing a suitcase with items such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, extra clothes, and medications.

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 because it'll give you money back if any of your possessions are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but gives you better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it has less protection. This insurance requires your movers to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions 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. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

Missouri Department of Revenue U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration