10 best long-distance moving companies in Coon Rapids, MN

Long-distance or interstate moves include their own challenges that set them apart from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may come up against complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges such as how to move your car.

The right moving professionals can help put your mind at ease. We've created this list of the leading long-distance movers in Coon Rapids so you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home without any problems.

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 consider. Local movers only work within a specific geographic radius and often charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to these requests at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local moving companies more often charge based on how long a job takes. Certain moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when calculating their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Local Coon Rapids moving companies are typically more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when relocating to another state. Long-distance moving companies 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 Coon Rapids

When you're choosing a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of choices can be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of picking a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Coon Rapids, we've compiled some guidance below.

• 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. You can look into these or similar options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. In addition to the insurance coverage offered by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Coon Rapids several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies offer financing plans. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong strategy to help pay for some of the cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several options allows you to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others think about specific long-distance moving companies. You should also ask friends and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be challenging and more expensive to book a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Coon Rapids, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that provide “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding prices. Reliable movers generally shouldn't demand your complete payment before the move. Avoid movers with an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice for long-distance moves is to book your movers far enough ahead of time. We recommend booking 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.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. You probably have valuable, fragile, or sentimental belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than in the moving truck.

We also advise making a checklist of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Minnesota DMV.

Put together a bag with essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as extra clothes, medicine, and toiletries.

Finally, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers are required to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide money back for any items 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 movers. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it has less protection. If you choose this plan, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are damaged or lost.

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 checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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