10 best long-distance moving companies in Oakdale, MN

There are a variety of importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues like how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the best movers for the job. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the leading long-distance movers in Oakdale to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only assist with local moves. Local movers generally provide moving services within a designated geographic radius. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. However, some movers use a combination of time and weight to calculate their rates, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer more affordable rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves is indispensable. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Oakdale

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options may feel overwhelming, making it challenging to select the right one for your move. Below, we have compiled some tips on how to choose a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Oakdale.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can inquire about these or other insurance options. To completely protect your possessions during the move, we suggest obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Oakdale several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Estimates 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: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing options. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help with expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several loans to make sure you choose the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read 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, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be challenging and costlier to hire a moving company. Since Oakdale is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Additionally, trustworthy movers won't ask for the full payment upfront. Steer clear of movers that have an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. 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 book your moving company well before of your move date. To ensure a stress-free move, schedule your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and potentially even more if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. When it comes to valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

To stay organized, prepare a detailed list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as notifying the Minnesota DMV of your new address.

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

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll reimburse you if any of your items are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it provides reduced coverage. With this option, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged items.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy after you move. This usually 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