10 best long-distance moving companies in Mankato, MN

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in severalimportant ways. When you're moving long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns like how to move your car.

The right movers can help lessen your issues. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home safely, we've put together this overview of the top long-distance movers in Mankato.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in a few ways. Local movers generally provide moving services within a designated geographic location. 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 charge based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight. However, some providers use a combination of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

Local Mankato moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. 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 Mankato

When you're selecting a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of choices may feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for choosing a legitimate, trustworthy long-distance moving company in Mankato.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types 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 look into these or other options. We also suggest getting your own moving insurance to completely protect your possessions. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to provide clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have plenty of time to plan your move. Get itemized quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Mankato. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing plans to help you pay for your move. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help cover cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple choices to make sure you find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what other clients have said about specific long-distance movers. Friends and family can also provide valuable 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. Because there are so many college students living in Mankato, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that provide “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding prices. Additionally, legitimate moving companies won't demand the full payment upfront. If a mover has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to reserve your moving company well in advance of your move date. We recommend scheduling movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. 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.

Create a list of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move. The list should include items such as updating your address with the Minnesota DMV.

Pack essentials for the first few days, such as medications, extra clothes, and toiletries.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers need to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. While Full Value Protection is pricier, it provides more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it gives you less protection. This plan requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items lost or damaged during the move.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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