10 best long-distance moving companies in Maple Grove, MN

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in several ways. When you're moving between states, you may encounter higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move your car.

The right moving company can help put your mind at ease. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home without incident, we've put together this overview of the top long-distance movers in Maple Grove.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are different in a few ways. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only offer services within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Local movers are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight. However, some providers use a mix of time and weight to calculate their prices, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

Although local movers may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, especially when moving from one state to another. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Maple Grove

When you're hiring a long-distance moving company, the wide range of options can feel overwhelming. Below, we provide some tips on how to find a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Maple Grove.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can inquire about these or other options for long-distance moves inside one state. In addition to the insurance choices carried by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Maple Grove several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Ensure these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing options to help you afford your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several loans allows you to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what previous clients have said about particular long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. You should also ask friends and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be difficult and costlier to book a mover. Maple Grove also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that offer “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding prices. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your entire payment before the move. If a mover has a history of poor 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 valuable piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to find your moving company well before of your move date. We advise scheduling movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You might choose to keep certain valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Write 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 a bag of essentials for the first few days, such as extra clothes, medications, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

Lastly, make sure to get plenty of rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is key, as it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. While Full Value Protection is pricier, it gives you greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it has reduced coverage. With this option, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy after you move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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