10 best long-distance moving companies in Brooklyn Center, MN

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in many ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues such as how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

The right moving company can help relieve your issues. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home without incident, we've put together this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Brooklyn Center.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only assist with local moves. Local moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

Local movers are also more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes, while long-distance movers more likely to charge based on the weight they're moving. However, some movers use a mix of time and weight to set their prices, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, especially when it comes to moving between states. Long-distance movers 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 headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Brooklyn Center

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the choices can be overwhelming, making it challenging to pick the right one for you. Below, we offer some recommendations on how to find a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Brooklyn Center.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can inquire about these or other insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. To better protect your belongings during the move, we recommend purchasing personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers supply clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Brooklyn Center several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Make sure these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing options. A moving or relocation loan can pay for some of the expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise looking into several loans to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what previous customers think about specific long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be difficult and costlier to get a moving company. Brooklyn Center also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you wary. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies with a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful tip for long-distance moves is to secure your movers far enough ahead of time. It's best if you book your move at least three months ahead of time. This gives you enough 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.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we suggest getting started a month in advance. You might prefer to have certain items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Writing a checklist of all the things that need to be done both 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.

Pack essentials for the first few days of your move, such as extra clothes, toothbrushes, and medications.

Lastly, make sure to get plenty of rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers must have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain items that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it has less coverage. If you choose this plan, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are lost or damaged.

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