10 best long-distance moving companies in Lawrence, KS

Long-distance or interstate moves have unique challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

The right moving professionals can help alleviate your worries. We've compiled this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Lawrence so you, your family, and your belongings get to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are distinct in several ways. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on time. Keep in mind that some moving companies might use both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be more affordable), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when moving between states. 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 Lawrence

Finding the right long-distance moving company in Lawrence requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. To help you navigate the process of picking a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Lawrence, we've put together some recommendations below.

• 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 clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can inquire about these or similar options. To fully protect your possessions during the move, we suggest getting personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers supply a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We recommend asking for quotes several months before your move. Get itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Lawrence. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several choices allows you to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what other clients have said about specific long-distance movers. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be challenging and more expensive to book a moving company. Lawrence also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that give you “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding quotes. Additionally, legitimate movers won't demand the full payment before the move. If a mover has a long history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful tip for long-distance moves is to book your movers far enough in advance. We suggest booking your move at least three months ahead of time, or possibly earlier if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. You probably have fragile, sentimental, or valuable items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than 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 Kansas DMV.

Pack necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as toiletries, medicine, and extra clothes.

The night before your move, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if some of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers need to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but provides more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it provides reduced coverage. This insurance requires your moving company to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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