10 best long-distance moving companies in St. Cloud, MN

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in severalsignificant ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about concerns like how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Hiring the right movers can help alleviate your challenges. We've made this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in St. Cloud so you, your family, and your belongings make it to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only offer local moves. Local movers often only offer services within a certain geographic radius. They'll usually charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies typically set fees based on the weight of your items, while local movers typically set fees based on the length of time needed for your move. Some moving companies, however, may use a combination of time and weight to set their rates, so it's necessary to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when it comes to moving from one state to another. Long-distance moving companies 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 St. Cloud

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in St. Cloud requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. See the list below for some recommendations on picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in St. Cloud.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance choices provided by your mover, obtaining 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 explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to provide a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in St. Cloud several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Confirm that these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing options. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good choice to help with expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We recommend looking into several options to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others say about certain long-distance moving companies. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and relatives.
• 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 hire a mover. Because there are so many college students living in St. Cloud, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that give you “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding quotes. Additionally, legitimate movers won't request the full payment upfront. If a mover has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A great piece of advice for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough ahead of time. To ensure an easy move, hire your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and potentially even more if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we recommend starting a month beforehand. When it comes to sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in 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.

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, toiletries, and extra clothes.

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll reimburse you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but provides more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less coverage. If you choose this insurance, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy after you move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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