10 best long-distance moving companies in Rochester, MN

Long-distance or interstate moves bring unique challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues such as how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

The right moving company can help relieve your challenges. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home without incident, we've compiled this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Rochester.

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 note. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only work within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically set fees based on the weight of your items, while local movers more often set fees based on how long a job takes. Keep in mind that some moving companies might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Local Rochester moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and experience, especially when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies 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 Rochester

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices can feel overwhelming, making it difficult to hire the right one for your move. Here are some tips for picking a legitimate long-distance moving company in Rochester.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, looking into these or other options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance choices carried by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers provide a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Rochester several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing options to help you pay for your move. A moving or relocation loan can help cover expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several loans allows you to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what others say about particular long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to get a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that provide “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding quotes. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your full payment upfront. If a mover has a long history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Securing your movers far enough in advance is essential when planning a long-distance move. We advise booking movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. 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.

Creating a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Minnesota DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

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

The night before moving day, don't forget to get a full night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (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 better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less coverage. This insurance requires your movers to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings 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. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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