How to Choose the Right Movers in Florida

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Brandon M.

Published Date: January 23, 2025

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Moving is not just about transporting items from one place to another; it’s about relocating a whole life.

When it comes to moving in Florida, the moving process can feel overwhelming.

In fact, according to the American Moving & Storage Association, more than 40 million people move every year in the U.S.

That’s a lot of people handling the stress of finding the right moving company.

In Florida alone, the demand for movers is high, with the state consistently ranking in the top 5 for the most common relocation destinations in the country.

So, if you’re moving to Florida—or within Florida—it’s critical to make the right choice regarding your moving company.

Imagine this: You’ve decided to move to the sunny streets of Miami or the bustling atmosphere of Orlando. You’ve got a ton of questions, and one of the biggest decisions on your mind is how to choose the right movers in Florida.

There are dozens of companies vying for your attention, and going through all those options is a bit like looking for a needle in a haystack.

It’s not just about hiring any company; it’s about finding one that fits your needs and treats your belongings with the utmost care.

Florida movers should understand the state’s unique conditions—whether it’s dealing with the unpredictable weather in Tampa or the bustling city life in Fort Lauderdale.

With nearly 10,000 licensed moving companies across the U.S., the search for the best movers for long-distance moves in Florida or affordable movers in Florida can be stressful.

But you don’t need to rush into the decision. By following some simple steps and being strategic, you can make sure your move is smooth.

Step 1: Understand What You Really Need

First off, you’ve got to ask yourself: What kind of move am I making?

This sounds simple, but it’s super important.

Are you Moving across Miami, or are you planning to move across the country from Florida to California?

Here’s a breakdown of what to think about:

Local vs. Long-Distance Moves: Moving within the state (local) or moving out of Florida (long-distance)? It matters.

Local moves tend to cost less and take less time. Long-distance moves, however, involve more planning and usually require movers who specialize in that type of relocation.

When you’re looking for Movers for Long-Distance Moves in Florida, you’ll need a company with the right experience.

Type of Services You Need: Are you going to pack everything yourself? Or do you need Packing and Moving Services in Florida?

A full-service move includes packing, loading, unloading, and even storage if needed.

Some companies like International Van Lines offer full-service moving, so you won’t have to lift a finger. It’s totally worth the extra expense for peace of mind.

Step 2: Start Researching Moving Companies

Now, let’s get to the heart of it—finding the right moving company.

Trust us, not all moving companies are created equal, especially when it comes to Experienced Movers in Florida.

You’ll want a company that’s got a solid reputation.

Here are some tips to help you choose wisely:

Licensing and Insurance: Make sure that the company is licensed and insured. In Florida, this is non-negotiable. You want to make sure your belongings are covered during the move and that the movers are held to a standard.

Note: If a company isn’t licensed or can’t show you proof of insurance, it’s time to walk away.

Reviews and Reputation: You’ve probably seen reviews on Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau. But let’s get deeper into this.

What are actual customers saying? If you check out International Van Lines – What Customers Are Saying in 2025, you’ll notice glowing reviews from people who’ve moved with them, which can help you get a better idea of what to expect.

Step 3: Get Multiple Quotes and Compare

You’re going to need at least three quotes from different companies.

Why? Because moving costs can vary greatly, and you want to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.

But don’t just look at the price—look at the services included in the quote.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

Transparent Pricing: A reputable company will break down their quote. You don’t want hidden fees that pop up at the last minute. Look for companies that give a detailed list of costs upfront.

Cheap Isn’t Always Better: Every penny counts, but affordable movers in Florida can sometimes mean cutting corners.

You’ll want to make sure you’re not sacrificing quality for a lower price. A low quote that seems too good to be true might indicate less experienced movers or a lack of essential services.

Step 4: Don’t Forget About Customer Service

You’re not just hiring a company to move your stuff. You’re hiring people you’ll be interacting with during a stressful time in your life.

Customer service is key!

You should feel confident and comfortable with the company you choose.

Ask yourself:

  • How did they respond to your inquiries? Were they prompt and helpful? If a company takes days to respond to your emails or phone calls, that’s a red flag.
  • Communication During the Move: Are they easy to reach if something goes wrong? The last thing you want is to be stuck waiting around with no answers when it’s moving day.

Step 5: Understand the Moving Process

Here’s where you get to visualize the process. What’s going to happen when moving day finally arrives?

Inventory and Packing: When the movers arrive, they’ll take inventory of your items. They should carefully pack fragile items and ensure everything is protected.

If you’re doing it yourself, make sure you have proper packing materials (bubble wrap, sturdy boxes, etc.) to avoid damage.

Transportation and Delivery: Will the movers use their own trucks, or will they outsource the transportation? Be sure to ask. And get an estimate on how long it will take for your things to arrive.

No one likes waiting around for days wondering where their stuff is.

Step 6: Ask About Liability and Insurance Coverage

This one’s important—what happens if something gets damaged or lost during the move?

When you choose Top-Rated Moving Services in Florida, you want to make sure your items are insured.

Types of Insurance: There are different types of moving insurance, so it’s crucial to understand which one covers your needs.

There’s basic coverage and full-value protection, and some companies like International Van Lines offer the latter for a bit more peace of mind.

Step 7: Look for Hidden Costs and Extra Charges

No one wants to be blindsided with hidden fees after the move.

Be sure to read the fine print and ask about:

Packing fees: Sometimes, movers charge for packing materials. Make sure that’s included in the quote.

Distance and Travel Fees: Depending on the company and how far your new home is from the moving company’s base, you may incur additional travel fees.

Step 8: Final Preparations for the Move

Now that you’ve booked your moving company, it’s time to get ready for the big day.

Here’s a checklist:

Confirm the Moving Date: A couple of days before the move, double-check the time and date with the movers. Make sure everything is lined up.

Prepare for Arrival: Make sure your paths are clear for the movers, especially if you’re dealing with stairs or narrow hallways.

Step 9: After the Move—Inspect and Review

Once the move is complete, do a thorough inspection of your items.

Is anything broken or missing? Report any issues to the moving company right away.

If everything went smoothly, don’t forget to leave a review so others can benefit from your experience.

FAQs

It’s recommended to book your movers at least 4-6 weeks in advance, especially if you’re moving during the peak season (spring to early fall). However, if you’re moving in the off-season, a couple of weeks’ notice may suffice.

Yes, some moving companies may charge hidden fees. Common hidden fees include additional charges for packing materials, long carry fees (if your new home is far from the truck), and fuel charges.

If your items are damaged during the move, you should immediately contact the moving company and file a claim. Most reputable companies, like International Van Lines, offer damage protection.

Tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated if the movers did an excellent job. The typical tip is around 5-10% of the total cost of the move or $20-$50 per mover, depending on the complexity and quality of the service provided.

Many moving companies, including International Van Lines, offer vehicle transport services in addition to moving household goods. If you need to move a car, it’s best to inquire in advance, as it may come with an additional cost.

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