10 best long-distance moving companies in Burnsville, MN

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

Put your mind at ease by hiring the best moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve created this list of the top long-distance movers in Burnsville to help you, your family, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in several ways. Local moving companies only work within a specific geographic radius and often charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such jobs at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on time. Keep in mind that some moving companies might use both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Burnsville

Selecting the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices may feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for picking a legitimate, trustworthy long-distance mover in Burnsville.

• 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 customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, ask about the insurance options provided by your mover. To completely protect your belongings during the move, we suggest obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers 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 taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers provide customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have plenty of time to plan your move. Request itemized quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Burnsville. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing options to help you afford your move. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help with cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. We suggest researching several choices to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what others think about specific long-distance movers. Friends and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be challenging and costlier to get a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in Burnsville, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you cautious. Reputable moving companies generally shouldn't request your complete payment upfront. Avoid moving companies with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Securing your movers far enough in advance is critical when getting ready for a long-distance move. We suggest hiring movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. When it comes to valuable, sentimental, or fragile belongings, such as artwork 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, prepare a detailed list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as notifying the Minnesota DMV of your new address.

Pack essentials for the first few days, such as medicine, extra clothes, and toothbrushes.

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 critical because 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. 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 movers might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but offers more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it has less coverage. This plan requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings damaged or lost during the move.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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