10 best long-distance moving companies in Apple Valley, MN

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in severalimportant ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns like how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by picking the best moving professionals for the job. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings reach your new home safely, we've compiled this guide to the best long-distance movers in Apple Valley.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only offer local moves. Local moving companies generally offer moving services within a designated geographic radius. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a significant fee to do so.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers usually set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies usually set fees based on the time required for your move. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when establishing their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local Apple Valley moving companies are generally more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the proper 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 Apple Valley

Hiring the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options can be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of choosing a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Apple Valley, we've gathered some guidance below.

• 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 is inside one state, ask about the options provided by your mover. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to completely protect your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance coverage in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Apple Valley several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Make sure these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing options to help you pay for your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong option to help cover expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few options to make sure you choose the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what others think about specific long-distance moving companies. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be challenging and more expensive to hire a mover. Since Apple Valley is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you suspicious. Additionally, trustworthy moving companies shouldn’t demand the full payment before the move. If a moving company has an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Booking your moving company far enough in advance is key when getting ready for a long-distance move. We recommend booking movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need more specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. When it comes to sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

Writing a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Minnesota DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

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

The night before moving day, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is a necessity, as it'll protect you if any 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 are required to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but includes more coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it gives you less protection. With this insurance, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged items.

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. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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