10 best long-distance moving companies in Plymouth, MN

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in many 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.

The right moving company can help lessen your issues. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings make it to your new home without incident, we've put together this overview of the top long-distance movers in Plymouth.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are several key differences to be aware of. Local movers only operate within a specific geographic area and often charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to such jobs at all.

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

Local Plymouth moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Plymouth

When you're picking a long-distance mover, the wide range of options can feel overwhelming. Below, we have compiled some guidance on how to pick a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Plymouth.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can inquire about these or other insurance options for long-distance moves within the same state. To completely protect your possessions during the move, we suggest purchasing your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start getting estimates several months ahead of your move. Get itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Plymouth. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies offer financing plans. A moving or relocation loan can pay for some of the cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few options to make sure you get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others thought about certain long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Neighbors and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and more expensive to hire a moving company. Plymouth also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that provide “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding quotes. Additionally, trustworthy movers shouldn’t demand the full payment upfront. Avoid movers with a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your movers far enough in advance is critical for a successful long-distance move. We recommend booking your move at least 90 days in advance, or possibly earlier if you need specialized 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 prefer to keep certain valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

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

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days of your move, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, extra clothes, and medicine.

Finally, make sure to get a full night’s sleep the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers must offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. 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 extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. While Full Value Protection costs more, it gives you better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it has less coverage. This insurance requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy during your move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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