10 best long-distance moving companies in Minnetonka, MN

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in severalimportant ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Lessen your concerns by picking the right movers for the job. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive at your new home safely, we've compiled this list of the top long-distance movers in Minnetonka.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in many ways. Local movers usually only work within a certain geographic radius. They'll usually charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to charge based on how long a job takes. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when moving from one state to another. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Minnetonka

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options may feel overwhelming, making it difficult to choose the right one for your needs. Below, we offer some advice on how to choose a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Minnetonka.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or similar options. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to better protect your belongings. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a qualified mover. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers provide a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We advise asking for quotes several months ahead of your move. Ask for detailed cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Minnetonka. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can help cover cost. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We suggest researching several loans to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others say about certain long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Because there are so many college students living in Minnetonka, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that offer “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding quotes. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your full payment upfront. Avoid movers that have a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Scheduling your moving company far enough ahead of time is extremely important when getting ready for a long-distance move. It's best if you plan your move at least three months beforehand. This gives you plenty of time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specialized 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 fragile, sentimental, or valuable possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Put together a list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move. The list should include tasks such as updating your address with the Minnesota DMV.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a bag with items such as extra clothes, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and medications.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection is more expensive, it provides better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it has less protection. With this insurance, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy when you move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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