We may be compensated if you purchase through links on our website. Our Reviews Team is committed to delivering honest, objective, and independent reviews on home products and services.More

Best Moving Companies in Florida (2024)

Author Icon By Shane Sentelle + 1 other Reviewer Icon Reviewed by Kent Sisneros Updated 03/22/2024

The U.S. Census Bureau named Florida the fastest-growing state in the country after reviewing 2022 census data. Moving companies such as International Van Lines (IVL) and American Van Lines can deliver a seamless relocation if you’re one of the many people moving to or from the Sunshine State.

We recognize IVL as the best moving company for Floridians. It has an extensive service selection, a wide coverage area, and multiple protection plans. American Van Lines is also a good choice if you need reliable assistance moving more challenging items, such as antiques or expensive electronics.
We reviewed and scored the best moving companies based on cost, service offerings, customer feedback, and other factors and compiled this guide with our findings. Learn all about our top six favorite moving companies for Florida residents below.


Best Florida Moving Companies of 2024

We used our rating methodology to evaluate and score Florida moving companies on their services, insurance coverage, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Association (FMCSA) reports, and more. Here’s our list of the best movers in Florida for 2024:


What Should I Know About Florida Movers?

You should understand a Florida moving company’s average pricing, insurance options, and available services.

How much does it cost to move to Florida?

What is moving insurance?

What moving services are available in Florida?

The cost of moving to Florida varies significantly depending on the distance, the size of your household, and the specific location within Florida. We found that most moves cost around $6,132 based on the quotes we gathered for our guide. 

Moving to Florida can be expensive if you have a lot of belongings to transport. Hiring professional movers, renting a moving truck, buying packing materials, and storing your belongings temporarily can also add up quickly.

You should get quotes from multiple moving companies and factor in additional expenses such as fuel, tolls, and lodging. Furthermore, keep in mind that the cost of living in popular areas such as Miami, Tampa, and Orlando may be higher than where you currently live. Therefore, you must consider the cost of housing, utilities, and other expenses before moving.

Moving insurance provides financial protection against potential damages, loss, or theft that may occur during the moving process.

Moving insurance comes in two main types: released value protection and full-value protection. Released value protection is a basic coverage option offered by most moving companies at no extra cost, while full-value protection provides more comprehensive coverage but requires an additional fee. It’s important to review an insurance policy carefully, understand the deductibles, and estimate the value of your belongings accurately to ensure adequate coverage.

Our February 2024 survey of 1,000 moving customers revealed that ​​72% opted for full coverage, finding the extra protection worth the cost.

Full-service moving companies offer comprehensive moving services, from packing to unpacking. These companies employ trained professionals to handle your belongings carefully, making the process stress-free. They also provide services such as disassembling and reassembling furniture, disconnecting and reconnecting appliances, and storage solutions.

A more economical option is a moving container. Moving container companies provide portable storage units that they deliver to your doorstep. You can pack and load at your own pace before the company transports the container to your new location.
You’ll also come across specialized moving services tailored to specific requirements. Senior moving services cater to the unique needs of elderly individuals, providing additional assistance and care throughout the moving process. Companies such as American Van Lines train their employees to handle valuable and delicate items, guaranteeing safe transportation. You can even find piano and hot tub movers who specialize in moving these bulky and heavy items, using specialized equipment and techniques to prevent damage.


Compare Moving Companies in Florida

Our top picks for Florida movers include IVL and American Van Lines due to their extensive service options and reliable insurance coverage with full-value protection plans. Check out the table below to see how all our top providers compare.

Star Rating BBB Rating Link
International Van Lines International Van Lines
B VISIT SITE
American Van Lines American Van Lines
A VISIT SITE
Safeway Moving Inc. Safeway Moving Inc.
A+ VISIT SITE
Interstate Moving & Relocation Group Interstate Moving & Relocation Group
B VISIT SITE
Moving APT Moving APT
B VISIT SITE
JK Moving Services JK Moving Services
A+ VISIT SITE
International Van Lines
Logo International Van Lines
Star Rating
BBB Rating B
VISIT SITE
American Van Lines
Logo American Van Lines
Star Rating
BBB Rating A
VISIT SITE
Safeway Moving Inc.
Logo Safeway Moving Inc.
Star Rating
BBB Rating A+
VISIT SITE
Interstate Moving & Relocation Group
Logo Interstate Moving & Relocation Group
Star Rating
BBB Rating B
VISIT SITE
Moving APT
Logo Moving APT
Star Rating
BBB Rating B
VISIT SITE
JK Moving Services
Logo JK Moving Services
Star Rating
BBB Rating A+
VISIT SITE
Company Star Rating BBB Rating Visit Site
4.9
B VISIT SITE
4.4
A VISIT SITE
4.2
A+ VISIT SITE
4.4
B VISIT SITE
4.4
B VISIT SITE
4.7
A+ VISIT SITE
4.8
A+ VISIT SITE
4.5
A+ VISIT SITE

Note: BBB ratings are accurate as of March 2024.


Top Companies for Florida Moves

International Van Lines

Best Service Offerings
4.9
  • Our Rating: 4.9 out of 5

International Van Lines (IVL) is our top pick for a professional mover in Florida due to its competitive rates and comprehensive service options. You can access services such as packing and unpacking, loading and unloading, and storage. IVL (USDOT #: 2293832) also provides specialty services for unique and difficult items such as pianos or expensive artwork.

How We Scored International Van Lines

IVL earned 4.9 out of 5 stars according to our scoring methodology. Here’s a breakdown of how it did in each category:

  • Moving Services (59 out of 59 points): IVL offers an extensive suite of moving services catering to diverse needs. These include full-pack, partial-pack, or specialized services such as crating for artwork and antiques.
  • Insurance Coverage (8 out of 8 points): It provides multiple insurance options, ensuring your belongings are well-protected during your move. You can choose from full-value protection or more cost-effective partial-value release plans, tailoring the coverage to your requirements.
  • Scheduling (8 out of 8 points): IVL’s scheduling and quote process is designed for convenience, with hassle-free communication channels such as email and phone, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish.
  • Additional Benefits (10 out of 13 points): The company doesn’t offer financing or do-it-yourself (DIY) moving methods. However, it stands out by providing storage services and selling packing materials.
  • Customer Service (12 out of 12 points): IVL boasts an outstanding reputation across online review platforms, reflecting its commitment to customer satisfaction. Furthermore, the company has maintained an impressive track record, with only one reported crash in the past two years.

Pros and Cons

Pros Offers 24/7 customer support Offers specialty services for artwork, antiques, and pianos Provides multiple protection plan options Cons Has higher pricing than many competitors No sample pricing is available online You need to pay a 25% deposit

Florida Moving Services

IVL focuses on full-service moves, but you can mix and match services to create custom moving packages. Its services include the following:

  • Crating
  • Furniture disassembly and reassembly
  • Loading and unloading
  • Packing and unpacking
  • Short- and long-term storage
  • Specialized packing for fragile items
  • Vehicle relocation

Cost

IVL provides two options for obtaining an estimate: an in-depth phone estimate or an in-person consultation. We strongly recommend scheduling an in-person consultation as it allows for a more accurate initial estimate and the opportunity to have any questions answered quickly. However, you can use IVL’s online cost calculator to generate a rough estimate if you can’t schedule an in-person meeting. Our quote below is a nonbinding estimate, which means it’s subject to change.

  • Sample quote: $5,250–$7,688 (to move a three-bedroom home from Atlanta to Miami)
  • Deposit: 25%
  • Payment accepted: Cash, cashier’s check, credit card (deposit only), money order

Reputation and Reviews

IVL has an A rating on its BBB profile, but the organization doesn’t accredit it. We found that many previous customers have appreciated the prompt service during the move-booking process, but some have experienced inconsistent quality standards among local IVL affiliates.

American Van Lines

Best Overall Moving Labor
4.4
  • Our Rating: 4.4 out of 5

American Van Lines (USDOT #: 614506) is a great choice for your Florida move if you need movers to handle difficult items. The company hires its movers on a full-time rather than a contractual basis, which means that it’s home to experienced and well-trained movers with an average of 10 years of moving experience. Additionally, the company uses a training facility in Florida to ensure its movers obtain regular experience handling difficult items such as unique artwork, exercise equipment, pianos, and more.

How We Scored American Van Lines

American Van Lines scored 4.4 out of 5 stars. Here’s a breakdown of its performance across each category:

  • Moving Services (59 out of 59 points): American Van Lines’ service packages and offerings are on par with those of an industry leader such as IVL. The company excels at providing highly specialized services for moving antiques and difficult items, catering to unique relocation needs.
  • Insurance Coverage (8 out of 8 points): The company gained all points in this category because it offers multiple levels of insurance options so that you can customize your coverage according to your budget.
  • Scheduling (4 out of 8 points): This is an area that could see improvement. You can only schedule services via phone, which may be inconvenient for some. Additionally, the company’s customer service hours are limited to 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. EST on weekdays and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. EST on Saturdays, with no availability on Sundays.
  • Additional Benefits ((8 out of 13 points): American Van Lines offers fewer additional benefits than IVL. Like IVL, the company doesn’t provide financing or DIY moving options, which could be a drawback for some customers.
  • Customer Service (9 out of 12 points): The company maintains a generally positive online reputation, but we have concerns regarding the regular failure of some of its trucks during federal inspections.

Pros and Cons

Pros Has flat-rate pricing and a price-matching policy Uses in-house, highly experienced movers Offers climate-controlled storage options Cons Doesn’t provide online moving quotes Requires a hefty up-front deposit of 10%–50% Isn’t always an effective communicator according to some customer reviews

Florida Moving Services

American Van Lines offers full-service and partial-pack options. A background-checked team will handle every part of your move from start to finish with services such as:

  • Crating for large items such as pianos and bed frames
  • Furniture disassembly and reassembly
  • Office relocation
  • Packing and unpacking
  • Specialty packaging for delicate items
  • Storage options
  • Vehicle relocation

Cost

One great feature of American Van Lines is that it offers fixed pricing. The price you receive at the end of the quote process becomes a binding estimate that the company doesn’t change, no matter what happens during the move. Other moving companies may adjust your overall cost due to unexpected circumstances, but American Van Lines won’t.

American Van Lines doesn’t provide sample pricing online. We went through the quote process and obtained the following information.

  • Sample quote: $5,870 (to move a three-bedroom home from Atlanta to Miami)
  • Deposit: Up to 50% up-front
  • Payment accepted: Cash, cashier’s check, credit card, money order, and traveler’s check

Reputation and Reviews

American Van Lines features an A+ rating on its BBB profile. Many reviewers have commended the moving company for its transparent pricing structure, which provides up-front estimates without hidden fees. However, some customers reported experiencing unexpected price increases mid-move. Others reported difficulty communicating directly with the moving crews handling their possessions.

Safeway Moving Inc.

Most Reliable Pricing
4.2
  • Our Rating: 4.2 out of 5

Safeway Moving Inc. (USDOT #: 3756000) is headquartered in South Florida but serves all 50 states thanks to a network of partners. Safeway is registered as a carrier and broker, meaning it coordinates some moves using its crews but outsources moves in some locations. It’s a veteran-owned business that requires all partners to uphold standard industry regulations.

How We Scored Safeway Moving Inc.

Safeway earned 4.2 out of 5 stars. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its performance:

  • Moving Services (59 out of 59 points): Safeway offers a wide range of moving services catering to diverse needs. The company ensures a seamless relocation experience whether you require partial packing, full packing, or specialized options.
  • Insurance Coverage (5 out of 8 points): The company provides two insurance options, a released value protection plan and a full-value protection plan, but its offerings in this category could be more extensive compared to industry leaders.
  • Scheduling (8 out of 8 points): Safeway excels in communication and scheduling convenience. It prioritizes customer engagement, offering multiple phone, email, and chat channels. Its dedicated team remains actively involved throughout the moving process, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
  • Additional Benefits (6 out of 13 points): Safeway may not offer extras such as shipment tracking, financing options, online resources, or moving calculators, but it excels in connecting you with a wide range of standard moving services.
  • Customer Service (6 out of 12 points): The companies it partners with impact Safeway’s customer service reputation, leading to mixed experiences. However, its team is actively working to address concerns and improve its FMCSA profile, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing customer satisfaction.

Pros and Cons

Pros Offers price-matching for its storage services Provides 30 days of free storage with all long-distance moves Requires moving partners to hold $1 million insurance policies Cons Outsources some services to third-party providers with its broker authority Charges up to a 40% booking deposit plus an administrative fee Has reviews that mention difficulty reaching customer service representatives

Florida Moving Services

Safeway is a full-service mover that specializes in long-distance relocations. Services include the following:

  • Crating
  • Fragile-item wrapping
  • Inventory labeling
  • Packing and unpacking
  • Storage
  • Vehicle shipping

Cost

Safeway doesn’t have an online moving cost calculator, so you’ll need to call to get your free moving quote. You can self-report your inventory to receive a binding estimate, but requesting an in-home or video consultation will likely lead to a more accurate assessment of its weight. We received a ballpark quote from Safeway by coordinating with a representative and providing an inventory list. 

  • Sample quote: $6,147 (to move a three-bedroom home from Atlanta to Miami)
  • Deposit: Up to 40%
  • Payment accepted: Cash, credit card, certified check, and money order

Reputation and Reviews

Safeway currently holds a B- rating on the BBB. Many customers have left positive reviews for Safeway, citing its high-quality service, thorough quote process, and wide range of insurance options. However, some reviews have raised concerns about bait-and-switch tactics, whereby the final price significantly differs from the initial quote. 

Interstate Moving & Relocation Group

Most Efficient
4.4
  • Our Rating: 4.4 out of 5

Interstate Moving & Relocation Group (IMRG) (USDOT #: 3034100) is an interstate moving broker that arranges moving services by referring you to one of the numerous agents in its vetted partner network. This Florida-based provider works closely with companies specializing in intrastate and out-of-state moves. Customer experiences with moving brokers can be wildly inconsistent due to the varying quality of service through different third-party providers, but scheduling through a broker opens the door to a wider selection of specialty services.

How We Scored Interstate Moving & Relocation Group

IMRG scored 4.4 out of 5 stars. Here’s how it did in each category:

  • Moving Services (59 out of 59 points): As a broker, IMRG’s strength lies in its network of movers who can provide any moving package you require. IMRG can always connect you with the right service providers to meet your needs.
  • Insurance Coverage (5 out of 8 points): IMRG’s insurance offerings are limited to partial- and full-value protection plans, but they provide essential coverage for your belongings during the move.
  • Scheduling (8 out of 8 points): IMRG prioritizes clear communication and seamless coordination, offering multiple contact options through phone and online channels. This ensures a hassle-free experience, keeping you informed throughout the process and facilitating smooth coordination between you and the assigned movers.
  • Additional Benefits (6 out of 13 points): It provides a decent selection of additional benefits, such as moving checklists and guides, to assist you in preparing for your move. However, it lacks certain industry-standard offerings such as storage services, truck rentals, and financing options.
  • Customer Service (9 out of 12 points): IMRG maintains a positive reputation thanks to its helpful customer service team. Additionally, the company consistently passes inspections and has an excellent safety record, with no accidents reported on its FMCSA profile in the last two years.

Pros and Cons

Pros Can accommodate many different types of moves, including standard residential moves, military moves, and corporate relocations Works with self- and full-service partners to personalize moving services Books quickly thanks to its large carrier network and can often schedule moves at the last minute Cons Has mixed customer reviews, often citing lowball estimates that increase on your moving date Charges a 4% fee for cancellations Has no weekend customer support

Florida Moving Services

IMRG has mostly full-service movers in its network but also partners with self-service companies for customers who prefer a DIY move. Typical services include furniture and appliance disassembly and reassembly, packing assistance, and storage options.

It also offers the following services:

  • Cleaning
  • Crating for large items such as pianos and bed frames
  • Junk removal 
  • Piano moving
  • Unpacking
  • Vehicle shipping

Cost

We contacted IMRG and connected with Pricing Van Lines to get a ballpark estimate to move a three-bedroom home from Atlanta to Miami within two months. 

  • Sample quote: $5,725
  • Deposit: Up to 33%
  • Payment accepted: Cash, credit card, certified check, and money order

Reputation and Reviews

IMRG has a B rating on the BBB but no accreditation. IMRG has mixed reviews. Positive feedback praises the company’s professional and competent moving crews. However, some negative reviews cite bait-and-switch pricing tactics. Former customers reported significant discrepancies between the initial quote and the final bill.

Moving APT

Best Customer Service
4.4
  • Our Rating: 4.4 out of 5

Moving APT (USDOT #: 2247863) stands out on our list of top Florida moving companies for its focus on quality customer service. Moving APT screens all movers in its broad national network to ensure they’re licensed, insured, and reputable. Its representatives are available 24/7 online and by phone. Additionally, the company will check in with your mover to ensure everything is going according to plan.

How We Scored Moving APT

Moving APT scored 4.4 out of 5 stars. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the company’s performance across each category:

  • Moving Services (59 out of 59 points): As a broker, Moving APT can connect you with movers capable of fulfilling all standard moving services, including vehicle relocation, ensuring a comprehensive moving experience.
  • Insurance Coverage (5 out of 8 points): Moving APT offers the legally required released value protection plan and full-value options. However, the specific insurance options available will vary depending on your carrier.
  • Scheduling (4 out of 8 points): It boasts a user-friendly website but lacks online booking capabilities, limiting scheduling options to only phone calls.
  • Additional Benefits (8 out of 13 points): Moving APT offers moving truck rentals, unlike many other providers, which can be a valuable addition. However, it lacks financing options and surprisingly doesn’t provide packing supplies and materials to facilitate self-service moves.
  • Customer Service (12 out of 12 points): Moving APT features a higher customer review score and response rate on its BBB page than many other providers in our review. Additionally, the company’s FMCSA profile is spotless, reflecting its commitment to quality service and safety.

Pros and Cons

Pros Has 24/7 customer service Offers discounts for seniors, veterans, certain disabilities, short-distance moves, and early reservations Will work on your behalf to negotiate lower moving estimates Cons Won’t refund deposits on cancellations with fewer than seven days’ notice Doesn’t cover items broken, damaged, or lost by in-network moving companies Has some negative online customer reviews citing third-party price changes

Florida Moving Services

Moving APT can handle local, long-distance, and international full- and partial-service relocations through its network. The company provides a variety of add-on services to customize your moving experience, including the following:

  • Appliance disconnection and reconnection
  • Custom crating
  • Furniture disassembly and reassembly
  • Packing
  • Piano moving
  • Storage
  • Vehicle relocation

Cost

We used Moving APT’s online calculator to get a ballpark quote to move a three-bedroom home from Atlanta to Miami. You must reach out to the company directly for more accurate pricing information. The company can give you a binding estimate after reviewing your moving inventory and conducting a virtual home tour.

  • Sample quote: $1,575–$4,650
  • Deposit: Varies between partners
  • Payment accepted: Cash, check, and money order

Reputation and Reviews

Moving APT has a B+ rating on the BBB website but lacks accreditation. Many positive reviews highlight the company’s efficient resources and quick quote turnaround times. Negative reviews cite poor customer service experiences after booking.

JK Moving Services

Best Specialized Packing
4.7
  • Our Rating: 4.7 out of 5

JK Moving Services (USDOT #: 1065394) offers full-service and partial-service moving packages tailored to your budget and moving needs. Another impressive offering from the company is its ability to provide financing. You can receive rates as low as 0% same-as-cash on your customized moving package with JK Moving.* This isn’t a common offering in the moving industry. The company doesn’t offer local moves within Florida, but if you’re looking to move into or out of the state, it’s is a great choice if you want full-service options on a budget.

*Subject to credit approval

How We Scored JK Moving Services

JK Moving scored an impressive 4.7 out of 5 stars. Here’s how it did across key categories: 

  • Moving Services (59 out of 59 points): JK Moving truly shines in this area, offering highly customizable services tailored to diverse moving needs.
  • Insurance Coverage (5 out of 8 points): The company provides essential insurance options in partial- and full-value protection plans, but expanding its insurance offerings could further enhance its overall service and give you more choices to suit your specific requirements.
  • Scheduling (8 out of 8 points): JK Moving excels in scheduling convenience, offering both phone and online options for virtual or in-person estimates.
  • Additional Benefits (10 out of 13 points): It stands out by providing impressive additional benefits, including financing programs, storage services, and GPS tracking for added peace of mind. However, it lacks online pricing tools, which could be a valuable addition to its suite of offerings.
  • Customer Service (12 out of 12 points): JK Moving boasts excellent customer reviews and maintains a clean FMCSA profile, with only minor incidents reported.

Pros and Cons

Pros Offers financing through Enhancify Provides 24/7 customer service Has a user-friendly mobile app for in-home estimates and GPS tracking Cons Has a longer quote process than some competitors Uses third-party companies for storage Doesn’t do local moves in Florida

Florida Moving Services

JK Moving offers many industry-standard full-service options, such as:

  • Archive services
  • Climate-controlled storage options
  • Crating
  • Fragile furniture wrapping
  • Freighting
  • Loading and unloading
  • Packing and unpacking

Cost

JK Moving offers customized packages to meet each customer’s unique needs, so the company doesn’t provide sample pricing on its website. We reached out to a JK Moving sales representative to obtain a quote. Initially, we received a rough estimate through text message. However, we were required to conduct a virtual self-survey for a more accurate quote.

  • Sample quote: $6,708 (to move a three-bedroom home from Atlanta to Miami)
  • Deposit: $250 up-front
  • Payment accepted: Cash, credit card, certified check, and money order

Reputation and Reviews

JK Moving holds an A+ rating on its BBB profile. Its high marks on various review platforms reflect the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction. Our research showed that JK Moving stands out from its competitors because its professional and highly trained movers handle customers’ belongings with utmost care and efficiency.


What Determines a Florida Move’s Cost?

Most moving companies determine the cost of a Florida move by its distance, the weight of the items, and the time of year.

Below are two pricing structures for different types of Florida moves.

Single-Day Moves

The final cost of your local move in Florida will vary depending on the size of your home, the total weight and volume of your belongings, any additional services you might request (such as packing or unpacking assistance), and the distance you’re moving. Most local moving companies in Florida charge an hourly rate, typically from $80–$120 per hour and a minimum of three to four hours. It’s important to remember that extra fees may apply for moving specialty items such as pianos, hot tubs, or safes. They may also charge you extra for navigating stairs, long carrying distances, or any other circumstances requiring additional time and effort from the moving crew.

Multiday Moves

A long-distance, multiday move to or from Florida costs significantly more than a local move. These types of moves typically involve greater distances, logistics, and expenses. The primary cost determinants include the total distance, the size of your home or the volume of your belongings, and any additional services you pick.

Here’s a list of the factors that affect the cost of a long-distance, multiday move involving Florida:

  • Additional services: Loading and unloading are common services already included in many full-service moving quotes, which is why our 2024 survey found that most consumers, between 60% and 75%, opt for loading and unloading services. Extra services such as packing, crating, vehicle shipping, and more can significantly increase your overall cost. Companies may charge flat fees or incorporate these costs into the line-haul fees, so it’s essential to understand the pricing structure and scope of services included.
  • Booking: It’s advisable to book your move at least four to six weeks in advance to avoid potential surcharges that some moving companies impose for last-minute bookings within a week of the desired move date. Early planning ensures availability and allows you to secure competitive rates.
  • Company size: Quotes can vary significantly between national van lines, local movers, and truck rental options. Larger, well-known brands typically charge more, but they often provide better service reliability, claims handling, and overall peace of mind, making them a worthwhile investment for many customers.
  • Distance and weight: These two factors are the primary determinants of the “line-haul fees,” which constitute most moving expenses. Reputable movers should have well-defined processes for accurately weighing their trucks and stable per-mile rates to calculate these fees transparently.
  • Insurance: Replacement value protection plans and other moving insurance options help safeguard your belongings during transit but contribute to the overall cost, with higher-value plans being more expensive. Going without coverage can save money up-front, but it also carries financial risks in the event of loss or damage.
  • Time of year: Avoid moving between May and September—the industry’s busiest months—if possible. Rates are generally higher due to increased demand. Scheduling your move during the off-peak season can help secure more favorable pricing.

We requested sample quotes for all providers in our review. The average cost to move a three-bedroom home long-distance to Florida was $6,132. Below is a breakdown of each company’s pricing for the same move.

Moving CompanySample QuoteDeposit Required
International Van Lines$5,250–$7,68825%
American Van Lines$5,870Up to 50% up-front
Safeway Moving Inc.$6,147Up to 40%
Interstate Moving & Relocation Group$5,725Up to 33%
Moving APT$1,575–$4,650Varies between partners
JK Moving Services$6,708$250 up-front

How Do I Plan and Prepare for a Florida Move?

Successfully planning and preparing for a move in Florida involves creating a time line and sticking to it. Here are some steps to help ensure a smooth moving experience:

  1. Create a time line: Plan at least eight weeks before your move date. Follow a comprehensive time line that includes researching moving companies, decluttering unnecessary items, gathering moving supplies, and coordinating utility transfers to ensure a smooth and organized relocation process.
  2. Downsize: Go through your belongings and decide what to keep, donate, or discard. This crucial step will reduce your overall moving costs, making the packing process more efficient and less overwhelming.
  3. Gather supplies: Stock up on essential moving supplies such as boxes, packing materials, labels, markers, and tape. Many reputable moving companies offer these supplies for purchase or rent, providing a convenient one-stop solution.
  4. Research companies: Contact three reputable moving companies and request in-home estimates. This step will give you an accurate understanding of the costs involved and allow you to compare services, pricing, and overall value propositions. Additionally, you can use a resource such as the FMCSA to verify a company’s insurance information and identify any active red flags, such as revoked licensing.
  5. Transfer utilities: Arrange for the disconnection of your utilities, such as electricity, gas, water, and internet, at your current residence and their reconnection at your new home.
  6. Change your address: Notify important parties, including your employer, banks, subscriptions, and other relevant entities, of your new address. Additionally, file a change of address with the United States Postal Service (USPS) to ensure uninterrupted mail delivery.
  7. Pack strategically: Label all boxes clearly by room and content, and keep essentials separate for easy access during the first few days in your new home.
  8. Protect valuables: Safeguard your jewelry, important documents, and other valuables by keeping them with you during the move, ensuring their security and peace of mind throughout the relocation process.
  9. Plan for pets: Make arrangements for the safe transport of your pets and inquire about pet policies with your chosen moving company to ensure their well-being and compliance with any regulations.

What Time Line Should You Follow To Prepare for Your Interstate Move?

Following a time line for your Florida move will make a significant difference. Our 2024 survey showed that 49% of consumers reported that the entire moving process took less than six weeks, so we’ve broken down a moving checklist and a time line to help you book on time and stay on track with packing for your move.
Eight weeks before: Create a moving document to keep track of estimates, receipts, and other important information. Research and gather quotes from reputable moving companies. Start decluttering and get rid of items you no longer need.
Six weeks before: Book your mover and confirm the moving date. Arrange to transfer records, such as your children’s school records and medical records, if you’re moving long-distance. Order packing supplies such as boxes, tape, and bubble wrap. Start packing nonessential items and things you won’t need before the move.
Four weeks before: Submit a change of address to the USPS. Notify important parties, such as your employer and bank, of your new address. Make travel arrangements if necessary. Arrange for utility disconnection and reconnection at your old and new homes.
Two weeks before: Pack and clearly label all remaining boxes by room. Prepare an “essentials” box of items you’ll need immediately at your new home. Confirm parking for the moving truck at your new home if required.
One week before: Pack luggage with clothing, toiletries, etc., for the moving days. Confirm the time line with your mover.
Moving day: Do a final walk-through of your old home, checking closets, the attic, basement, and other less-used spaces. Keep valuables and important documents with you during the move. Make an inventory of your items loaded on the truck for verification.

How Do I Choose the Best Moving Company in Florida?

Choosing the best moving company in Florida requires careful research and consideration of several key factors. Here are some tips to help you select a reputable and reliable mover:

  • Avoid unusually low quotes: Be cautious of quotes that seem too good to be true, as they may indicate hidden costs or subpar services.
  • Check insurance: Verify that the moving company carries adequate insurance coverage to protect your belongings during transit. Consider additional insurance options if you have valuable or fragile items.
  • Check licensing: Verify that the moving company is licensed and insured for operations within Florida. You can confirm its credentials with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
  • Compare estimates: Get at least three in-home estimates. This will give you a better understanding of the average cost and allow you to compare services and pricing.
  • Get referrals: Contact friends, family members, or colleagues who recently moved to Florida and ask for recommendations. Word-of-mouth referrals can provide valuable insights into a company’s quality of service.
  • Read reviews: Check online reviews on platforms such as the BBB, Yelp, and Google Reviews. Look for companies with consistently positive reviews, and pay attention to any recurring complaints or issues mentioned.

Watch our video to get more insight on how to vet and book a trustworthy moving company:


What Are My Moving Options in Florida?

Moving companies offer a range of service models to cater to different requirements and budgets, and understanding the distinctions between these options is crucial in selecting the most suitable solution for your relocation needs. 

  • Container shipping: This service involves loading your belongings into a secure, weatherproof container the moving company provides. The container is then transported to your new home, either locally or long-distance. Container shipping can be an excellent choice for partial or long-distance moves, as it allows for flexible loading and unloading schedules, with the option to stage the process over multiple days.
  • DIY moves: Truck rental services, such as U-Haul, offer a cost-effective option for those willing to handle the packing, loading, and transportation of their belongings themselves. DIY moves can be significantly more affordable, with costs typically ranging from $1,000– $2,000, depending on the distance and size of the move.
  • Freight: A specialized freight provider is ideal for relocating oversized, heavy, or unique items such as vehicles, large furniture, or machinery. These companies use heavy-duty tools and equipment, including flatbeds, car haulers, or box trucks, to safely and securely transport these items over long distances.
  • Full-service moves: Full-service moves offer the ultimate convenience and peace of mind as they handle every aspect of your relocation. This comprehensive service includes packing materials, carefully packing and labeling all household items, loading and unloading trucks, transporting your belongings, and even reassembling furniture at your new location. Full-service moves come at a premium cost compared to other types of moves, but they minimize physical effort and stress, making them an attractive option if you’re seeking a seamless and hassle-free relocation experience.

Our Conclusion

International Van Lines is our top pick for moving services in the Sunshine State. The company offers robust moving services, including long-distance and local moving options. One of its standout features is the option for an adjustable, custom insurance plan to protect your valuable items. 

It’s important to determine what you value most from a moving company and what your biggest concern is with your move to or from Florida, as each provider fulfills different moving needs. We also recommend obtaining multiple quotes to get the best price.


FAQ About Moving Companies in Florida

When is the best time to move to Florida? 

Florida’s warm weather and the start of the school year make summer the busiest moving season. You may find better rates and availability in the fall, winter, or spring.

How are moving companies in Florida licensed and insured? 

It’s important that moving companies in Florida are licensed by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and have sufficient insurance coverage.

What is the cheapest way to move from Florida to California?

A rental truck is the cheapest option, but you must do all the driving and labor.

Why Trust Us? We conducted 4,800+ hours of research on moving companies and crafted a ranking system based on the following research
31
Companies Considered
1000
Homeowners Surveyed
21000
Reviews Analyzed
22
Providers Compared

Our Rating Methodology

The This Old House Reviews Team backs up our moving company ratings and recommendations with a detailed rating methodology to objectively score each company. We conduct research by reading through the company websites, analyzing customer reviews, conducting consumer surveys, requesting quotes, and speaking with customer representatives. We then score each moving company against our review standards for services, contents coverage, scheduling, trailer and container options, additional benefits, and reputation to arrive at a final score on a 5-point rating scale.

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.


Find Local Movers in FL