A long-distance move costs between $3,000 to $5,000 on average. Your relocation experience depends heavily on choosing the right long distance moving companies.
Long distance moves need substantially more preparation than local ones. You should start planning 8 to 12 weeks ahead to book your desired moving dates and services. Summer brings higher prices and limited availability since it’s the busiest moving season.
Interstate moving presents unique challenges. Moving companies must have Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) registration to transport belongings legally across state lines. The logistics become more complex, especially with moves beyond 450 miles.
Brightside Moving Group partners with thoroughly vetted carriers to ensure smooth relocations. This piece helps you make smart choices about your upcoming move, whether you’re comparing top long distance moving companies or searching for “long distance moving companies near me.”
What Makes a Move ‘Long Distance’?
The meaning of “long distance” in moving depends on how far you travel and whether you cross state lines. A move that covers more than 400 miles or crosses state boundaries usually counts as long distance. These key differences will help you pick the right moving service that fits your needs.
Understanding Interstate vs. Intrastate Moves
Moving between states differs from moving within a state in both classification and regulations. State lines determine if your move is interstate, no matter the actual distance. To name just one example, a move from Florida to Georgia qualifies as interstate even if you move just a few miles across the border. Moving within state boundaries counts as intrastate. Larger states like Texas or California might have moves covering hundreds of miles that still count as intrastate.
Our team at Brightside Moving Group handles both types of long-distance moves. We make sure everything meets regulations, whatever your destination.
How Long Distance Movers Are Regulated
Interstate moves operate under federal oversight through the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Every legitimate long distance moving company must have:
- A valid USDOT (Department of Transportation) number
- Proper registration with the FMCSA
- Adequate insurance for interstate relocations
- Full compliance with federal consumer protection regulations
These rules protect you during moves between states. State Department of Transportation rules govern intrastate movers. You should always verify a company’s credentials on the FMCSA website. We can help you check potential movers too.
Why Long Distance Moves Require More Planning
Long distance relocations need extra preparation compared to local moves. Local movers charge by the hour, while long distance moving companies base their prices on shipment weight and travel distance. This means you need a more detailed inventory.
Long distance moves also involve:
- Complex logistics planning
- Extra legal paperwork
- Possible storage if move-in and move-out dates don’t align
- Special handling for vehicles and unique items
Most experts say you should start planning 8–12 weeks before your move. This gives you enough time to research long distance moving companies near you, get accurate quotes, and book your preferred dates.
Our team at Brightside Moving Group knows these challenges well. We can help simplify your planning through our network of trusted carriers who specialize in long-distance moves.
How to Evaluate Long Distance Moving Companies
Picking reliable long distance moving companies needs careful research and verification. More than 5,600 registered household goods movers operate in the industry. Knowing how to assess potential companies will protect you from scams and give you a smooth relocation experience.
Check FMCSA Registration And USDOT Number
Interstate moving companies must have a unique USDOT number from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. This identifier helps track safety information and compliance history. Here’s how to verify a mover’s credentials:
- Ask for their USDOT number upfront
- Visit the FMCSA website to confirm registration status
- Check if they’re authorized specifically for household goods transportation
Brightside Moving Group partners with properly registered carriers, which saves you the verification hassle.
Look For Customer Reviews And Complaint History
The FMCSA received 2,851 consumer complaints about household goods movers in 2011 alone. Before you hire any company, look at their:
- Better Business Bureau ratings and reviews
- FMCSA complaint database history (available on their “Protect Your Move” website)
- Online reviews from multiple platforms (2–4 star reviews give the most balanced feedback)
Understand The Difference Between Brokers And Carriers
Moving brokers, like us at Brightside Moving Group, connect you with carriers that transport your belongings. Carriers use their own trucks and staff to move your items directly. So brokers must:
- Be registered with the FMCSA
- Provide a list of moving companies they use
- Base estimates on the tariff of the mover handling your shipment
Verify Insurance And Valuation Coverage Options
Federal law requires movers to offer two valuation options:
- Full Value Protection: Complete coverage where movers must pay replacement value for lost/damaged items
- Released Value Protection: Free but minimal coverage (60 cents per pound per article)
The mover might limit liability for items of “extraordinary value” that exceed $100 per pound. We suggest you discuss valuation options carefully to get adequate protection for your belongings.
Key Services To Look For In A Moving Company
The services offered by long-distance moving companies shape your overall experience. Top-rated carriers deliver damage-free service 99.4% of the time for your belongings.
Full-Service vs. Partial-Service Options
Full-service movers take care of your entire relocation process. They pack, load, transport, and unpack everything. This detailed approach lets you move without “lifting a finger (other than to sign a contract)”. Partial-service options give you control over certain tasks like packing while professionals handle the transportation.
Brightside Moving Group connects you with carriers offering both options. This helps you find the right balance between convenience and budget.
Packing, Crating, And Specialty Item Handling
Professional packing services cut down the risk of damage during long-distance moves. Quality movers bring all needed supplies and secure your items using tested methods. Custom crating gives extra protection to high-value or fragile items:
- Fine art and antiques need specially designed wooden containers
- Pianos require specialized equipment and expert handling
- Electronics and fragile items get better protection with reinforced crating
Our partner movers provide custom crating services based on your valuable items.
Vehicle Transport And Storage Solutions
Leading long-distance movers ship cars, motorcycles, and boats to your new location. Storage solutions complement moving services and offer:
- Temporary storage during transition periods
- Climate-controlled options to protect sensitive items
- Easy access to your belongings
Combining storage with your move costs less than booking separate services.
Real-Time Tracking And Customer Support
Leading companies use GPS tracking technology that updates every two hours. This feature helps you stay relaxed throughout your move.
Dedicated move coordinators work as your main contact point. They keep communication flowing before, during, and after the move. These professionals guide you through each step and quickly solve any issues that come up.
Look for companies that offer these key services matching your specific needs while comparing long-distance movers near you.
Cost Factors And How To Compare Quotes
Moving companies that handle long distances have complex cost structures you should understand to budget well. A long-distance move costs between $2,500 and $7,500 on average, but several factors can change this price.
What Affects Long Distance Moving Companies Prices
Your final moving cost depends on these key elements:
- Distance traveled: The further you move, the higher the price
- Weight of belongings: Most companies base their charges on shipment weight
- Timing: Moving rates go up during summer months (May–September)
- Home size: More rooms mean more stuff to move
- Special requirements: You might pay extra for stairs, elevators, or narrow entrances
Brightside Moving Group helps you understand these factors to keep costs predictable.
Binding vs. Non-Binding Estimates
The estimate type you choose substantially affects your final bill:
- Binding estimates lock in a fixed cost based on your agreed inventory, not weight. You’ll pay exactly what was quoted if your inventory stays the same.
- Non-binding estimates can change after weighing your belongings. The law says you need to pay no more than 110% of the estimated cost at delivery, though remaining charges might come 30 days later.
- Binding-not-to-exceed estimates give you the best protection—you’ll never pay above the quote, but might pay less if your shipment weighs less than expected.
How To Avoid Hidden Fees And Rogue Movers
Keep yourself safe from dishonest movers by:
- Checking USDOT numbers in the FMCSA database
- Making sure everything appears in writing with clear terms
- Staying away from companies that ask for big cash deposits
- Looking up complaint history through the Better Business Bureau
Tips For Getting Accurate Quotes From Top Rated Long Distance Moving Companies
You’ll get the most accurate prices when you:
- Ask for visual estimates through in-home or virtual assessments
- Compare at least three quotes from different companies
- Give complete inventory details upfront
- Check about extra costs like fuel surcharges or specialty item handling
Reach out to Brightside Moving Group for clear quotes from our trusted network of long distance moving partners.
Plan Your Long Distance Move With Florida’s Trusted Moving Brokerage
A successful long distance move starts with choosing the right licensed moving broker who understands the complexities of interstate relocations. Brightside Moving Group specializes in coordinating long distance moves for residential and commercial clients across Florida and the entire continental U.S. As a fully licensed Florida moving brokerage, we partner exclusively with thoroughly vetted carriers who meet strict quality, safety, and licensing standards.
Our experienced team handles every step of your relocation — from customized moving plans and transparent pricing to specialty item handling, vehicle transport, storage solutions, and full-service packing. We ensure your move stays on schedule, within budget, and completely stress-free.
With Brightside Moving Group, you get:
- Licensed and insured long distance movers
- Access to a vetted carrier network across 48 states
- Full-service options tailored to your specific needs
- Transparent, upfront quotes with no hidden fees
- Expert support throughout the entire moving process
Don’t let your long distance move become overwhelming. Contact Brightside Moving Group today for a free, no-obligation quote and let our trusted team match you with the perfect carrier for a smooth, worry-free relocation. Start early, plan smart, and move confidently with Florida’s reliable moving brokerage.
