3 best long-distance moving companies in Salina, KS

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

The right movers can help put your mind at ease. That’s why we’ve compiled this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Salina to help you, your family, and your possessions make it 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. Local movers only work within a specific geographic area and frequently charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to such jobs at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers usually set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies usually charge based on the length of time required for your move. Keep in mind that certain movers might incorporate both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Local Salina moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. 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 stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Salina

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options can feel overwhelming, making it challenging to select the right one for your needs. Here are some tips for finding a legitimate long-distance moving company in Salina.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can inquire about these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves within the same state. We also suggest obtaining your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies 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 complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months in advance to ensure you have adequate time to plan your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to ask for itemized quotes from several long-distance movers in Salina. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing options to help you pay for your move. A moving or relocation loan can pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several loans allows you to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what previous customers think about specific long-distance movers. You should also ask neighbors and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be difficult and costlier to book a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that offer “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding estimates. Additionally, reliable moving companies shouldn’t demand the full payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies that have a 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 key piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to book your moving company well before of your move date. To ensure an easy move, reserve your movers no less than 90 days ahead of your move date, and possibly even more if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You probably have valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

It's also a good idea to make a checklist of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Kansas DMV.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by putting together a bag with items such as medications, extra clothes, and toiletries.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Although Full Value Protection costs more, it offers better coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it provides less protection. This plan requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy after you move. While this usually 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