10 best long-distance moving companies in Sioux City, IA

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in significant ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move your car.

The right movers can help alleviate your worries. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings arrive at your new home without incident, we've created this overview of the top long-distance movers in Sioux City.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are some key differences to be aware of. Local moving companies generally offer moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers commonly charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers often set fees based on the time needed for your move. However, some companies use a mix of time and weight to calculate their rates, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

Local Sioux City moving companies are often more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Sioux City

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the choices can be overwhelming, making it challenging to select the right one for your needs. Below, we offer some tips on how to find a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Sioux City.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves within the same state, looking into these or other insurance options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance coverage offered by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your possessions. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers supply customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Sioux City several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing options as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We suggest looking into several loans to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what previous clients have said about certain long-distance moving companies. You should also ask neighbors and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be difficult and costlier to get a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your entire payment before the move. If a moving company has a long history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your movers far enough in advance is extremely important for a successful long-distance move. It's best if you book your move at least 90 days in advance. This gives you enough time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we advise getting started a month ahead of time. 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.

Creating a checklist of all the things that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Iowa DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Pack a bag with necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as medicine, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and extra clothes.

Finally, make sure to get enough rest the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is a necessity, as it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it gives less protection. This option requires your movers to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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