10 best long-distance moving companies in Andover, MN

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in many ways. When you're moving long-distance, you may encounter complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns like how to move your car.

Ease your problems by selecting the best moving professionals for the job. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've created this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Andover.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies differ in several ways. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only work 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. Some movers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to calculate their rates, 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 moving companies. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific location and potentially offer less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves is indispensable. Choosing a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Andover

Choosing the right long-distance mover is important, and the options can be overwhelming. Here are some tips for choosing a trustworthy long-distance moving company in Andover.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or similar insurance options. In addition to the insurance coverage provided by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to get itemized quotes from several long-distance movers in Andover. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies have financing plans. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help with expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We suggest researching several loans to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what previous clients think about certain long-distance movers. Neighbors and loved ones 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 get a moving company. Andover also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your entire payment upfront. If a mover has an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to find your moving company well before of your move date. It's best if you book your move at least 90 days beforehand. This gives you plenty of time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that 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 without professional help. When it comes to valuable, fragile, or sentimental belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

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

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

Lastly, make sure to get enough rest the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves because it'll reimburse you if any of your belongings are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. While Full Value Protection costs more, it offers better coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it provides less protection. This plan requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings lost or damaged during the move.

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

Sources

Minnesota Driver and Vehicle Services U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration