10 best long-distance moving companies in Des Moines, IA

Long-distance or interstate moves present unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns like how to move your car.

The right movers can help put your mind at ease. We've made this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Des Moines so you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are distinct in several ways. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic area. They'll usually charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies often set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies usually set fees based on the time needed for your move. Some moving companies, however, may use a mix of time and weight to calculate their prices, so it's important to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

Local Des Moines moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Des Moines

Finding the right long-distance moving company in Des Moines requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. See the list below for some tips on picking a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Des Moines.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, looking into these or other options is a good idea. To better protect your possessions during the move, we recommend getting personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a qualified mover. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to supply a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Des Moines several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Ensure these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing options. A moving or relocation loan can help pay for some of the cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple options to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what previous clients think about specific long-distance moving companies. You should also ask friends and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be difficult and more expensive to get a mover. Des Moines also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Additionally, reputable moving companies won't ask for the full payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies with an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Booking your movers well before your move date is extremely important for a successful long-distance move. We advise booking your move at least 90 days ahead of time, or even earlier if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You probably have fragile, valuable, or sentimental belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than in the moving truck.

It's also important to make a checklist of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Iowa DMV.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days, such as toiletries, medicine, and extra clothes.

The night before your big move, remember to get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but includes more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less coverage. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are damaged or lost.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

Iowa Department of Transportation U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration