9 best long-distance moving companies in Fort Dodge, IA

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in many ways. When you're moving long-distance, you may encounter complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges such as how to move your car.

The right moving company can help relieve your issues. We've made this overview of the best long-distance movers in Fort Dodge so you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home safely.

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 movers often only offer services within a certain geographic area. They'll usually charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers are more likely to charge by time. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when calculating their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local Fort Dodge moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and experience, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance movers can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Fort Dodge

Hiring the right long-distance mover is important, and the options can be overwhelming. Here are some tips for picking a trustworthy long-distance mover in Fort Dodge.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can ask about these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance options in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a qualified mover. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Fort Dodge several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can help pay for some of the cost. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We suggest looking into several loans to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others thought about certain long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and costlier to hire a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you suspicious. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your full payment before the move. Avoid movers that have 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

A great piece of advice for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough ahead of time. It's best if you plan your move at least three months in advance. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Write a list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move. The list should include items such as updating your address with the Iowa DMV.

Pack essentials for the first few days of your move, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, medicine, and extra clothes.

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll provide reimbursement if any of your possessions are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide money back for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it has reduced coverage. This option requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings lost or damaged 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. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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