10 best long-distance moving companies in Manhattan, KS

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in several ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about concerns like how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the right moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve made this guide to the top long-distance movers in Manhattan to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only do local moves. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only offer services within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies typically set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies often set fees based on the length of time required for your move. However, some movers use a mix of time and weight to calculate their rates, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

Local Manhattan movers may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Manhattan

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options can feel overwhelming, making it challenging to pick the right one for you. See the list below for some advice on choosing a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Manhattan.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, look into the options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance coverage provided by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your belongings. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers 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 requiring movers to give clients a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in Manhattan several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing options to help you afford your move. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help with expenses. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare several loans to make sure you find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what other customers thought about specific long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be difficult and more expensive to book a moving company. Manhattan also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you suspicious. Additionally, reputable movers shouldn’t demand the full payment before the move. Avoid movers with an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Finding your moving company well before your move date is critical for a successful long-distance move. To ensure an easy move, hire your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. When it comes to valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's 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 Kansas DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Put together a suitcase with necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as medications, toiletries, and extra clothes.

The night before moving day, remember to get a full night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll give you money back if any of your possessions are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. Full Value Protection is pricier but offers better coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it provides less protection. This insurance requires your moving company to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions damaged or lost during the move.

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. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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