10 best long-distance moving companies in Gardner, KS

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in important ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

The right moving company can help lessen your issues. We've created this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Gardner so you, your loved ones, and your possessions arrive to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only offer local moves. Local movers generally offer moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a significant fee to do so.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. Some movers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to set their prices, so it's important to check your provider's pricing structure.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific city and potentially offer more affordable rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and stress 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 Gardner

When you're picking a long-distance mover, the wide range of choices may be overwhelming. See the list below for some tips on picking a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Gardner.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves within the same state, asking about these or similar options is a good idea. To better protect your possessions during the move, we recommend obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to provide customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Start asking for estimates several months ahead of your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to request detailed cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Gardner. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional 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 pay for some of the cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare a few loans to make sure you find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others have said about certain long-distance moving companies. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be challenging and costlier to get a mover. Since Gardner is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you suspicious. Additionally, reputable moving companies shouldn’t request the full payment upfront. Avoid moving companies that have a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

An important piece of advice for long-distance moves is to reserve your movers far enough in advance. We advise scheduling movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we advise starting a month ahead of time. You probably have sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of all the necessary tasks both before and after your move, such as notifying the Kansas DMV of your new address.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a suitcase with items such as extra clothes, medicine, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

The night before your big move, don't forget to get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but offers more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it provides less coverage. If you choose this option, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

Kansas Department of Revenue U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration