10 best long-distance moving companies in Richfield, MN

There are a range of factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about concerns like how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Selecting the right moving professionals can help lessen your issues. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home safely, we've created this list of the top long-distance movers in Richfield.

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 moving companies only operate within a specific geographic radius and usually charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to such requests at all.

Local movers are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance movers more likely to charge based on the weight they're moving. Some moving companies, however, may use a combination of time and weight to calculate their rates, so it's key to check your provider's pricing structure.

Local Richfield moving companies are typically more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the right 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 Richfield

When you're hiring a long-distance mover, the wide variety of options may feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for finding a reliable long-distance moving company in Richfield.

• 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. You can inquire about these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves within the same state. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to completely protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months in advance to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. Contact multiple long-distance moving providers in Richfield and get detailed cost breakdowns. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the cost. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several options allows you to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others have said about particular long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and relatives.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to get and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Since Richfield is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Reputable moving companies generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies with a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to reserve your moving company well before of your move date. We advise hiring movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

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

Make a list of everything that needs 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 extra clothes, medications, and toiletries.

Finally, make sure to get plenty of rest the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain items that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it has reduced coverage. With this insurance, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. 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