10 best long-distance moving companies in Shawnee, KS

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in severalimportant ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

Choosing the right movers can help alleviate your worries. That’s why we’ve made this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Shawnee to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are several key differences to be aware of. 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 area and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance movers more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. Some moving providers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to calculate their final cost, so it's key to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

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

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Shawnee

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options can feel overwhelming, making it difficult to hire the right one for you. See the list below for some tips on finding a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Shawnee.

• 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 clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves within the same state. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to completely protect your belongings. You can find more thorough information on 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 enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Shawnee several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Make sure these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing plans to help you pay for your move. A moving or relocation loan can pay for some of the cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend researching several choices to find 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 say about certain long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to book a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Shawnee, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Additionally, reliable movers won't request the full payment upfront. If a mover has a long history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

An important tip for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough ahead of time. We suggest scheduling movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need more specialized moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we recommend starting a month in advance. You probably have fragile, sentimental, or valuable belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Create a list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move. The list should include tasks 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 packing a bag with items such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, extra clothes, and medicine.

Finally, make sure to get enough rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but provides better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less protection. If you choose this option, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are lost or damaged.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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