10 best long-distance moving companies in Faribault, MN

There are a range of factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may encounter complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Hiring the right movers can help relieve your problems. We've compiled this list of the top long-distance movers in Faribault so you, your family, and your belongings arrive to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only offer local moves. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only work within a certain geographic radius 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 charge based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. Some movers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to set their prices, so it's necessary 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 area and potentially offer less expensive rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Faribault

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in Faribault requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. To help you navigate the process of picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Faribault, we've gathered some advice below.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can inquire about these or similar insurance options. To better protect your possessions during the move, we recommend obtaining personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have adequate time to plan your move. Request detailed quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Faribault. Confirm that these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend looking into several options to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what other clients thought about specific long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, get recommendations from your friends and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to book and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Trustworthy moving companies generally won't ask for your complete payment upfront. Avoid movers with a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to hire your moving company well in advance of your move date. We recommend booking your move at least three months in advance, or possibly earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You probably have valuable, sentimental, or fragile belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

We also advise making 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.

Pack a suitcase with necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as medicine, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and extra clothes.

The night before your move, make sure you get enough 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.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less protection. With this insurance, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. 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