10 best long-distance moving companies in Fridley, MN

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in a variety of ways. When you're moving long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Choosing the right movers can help relieve your problems. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Fridley to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are distinct in many ways. Local movers generally offer moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate 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 commonly set fees based on the length of time required for your move. Keep in mind that some moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when moving from one state to another. 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 Fridley

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options may be overwhelming, making it difficult to choose the right one for your needs. See the list below for some recommendations on choosing a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Fridley.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or similar options. In addition to the insurance coverage carried by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Fridley several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing plans 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 moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise looking into several loans to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what previous customers have said about specific long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. You should also ask neighbors and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be difficult and costlier to hire a moving company. Since Fridley is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Additionally, reputable moving companies shouldn’t ask for the full payment upfront. If a mover has a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Booking your moving company far enough ahead of time is extremely important when getting ready for a long-distance move. It's best if you book your move at least three months beforehand. This gives you plenty of time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we advise getting started a month beforehand. You might prefer to keep certain sentimental, valuable, or fragile items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of all the necessary tasks before and after your move, such as notifying the Minnesota DMV of your new address.

Put together a bag with essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as medications, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and extra clothes.

Finally, on the night before moving day, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll provide reimbursement if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain belongings 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 in the long-run you'll get more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it provides less protection. With this option, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over 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