10 best long-distance moving companies in Shoreview, MN

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in severalsignificant ways. When you're moving between states, you may encounter higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move your car.

Hiring the right moving professionals can help alleviate your issues. We've made this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Shoreview so you, your family, and your belongings make it to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in several ways. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only offer services within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies more often set fees based on time. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when setting their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Local Shoreview movers may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Shoreview

Picking the right long-distance mover in Shoreview requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. Here are some tips for finding a legitimate long-distance moving company in Shoreview.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two kinds of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar options for long-distance moves within the same state. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance plans 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 qualified mover. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers supply a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in Shoreview several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies offer financing options. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good strategy to help with expenses. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several choices allows you to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what other customers have said about certain long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Neighbors and loved ones 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 to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to get a mover. Shoreview also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you cautious. Additionally, reputable moving companies shouldn’t ask for the full payment before the move. Avoid movers that have a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to secure your moving company well before of your move date. It's best if you book 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 or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we recommend starting a month beforehand. When it comes to valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Writing a checklist of all the things 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 putting together a suitcase with items such as medicine, toothbrushes, and extra clothes.

The night before moving day, don't forget to get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves because it'll give you money back if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

All interstate movers are required to have 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. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it has less protection. If you choose this option, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. While this typically 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