10 best long-distance moving companies in Woodbury, MN

Long-distance or interstate moves include their own challenges that set them apart from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues such as how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

Lessen your problems by picking the best movers for the job. That’s why we’ve put together this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Woodbury to help you, your family, and your possessions arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are some key differences to keep in mind. Local moving companies only operate within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such jobs at all.

Local movers are also more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes, while long-distance movers more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. Certain moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when calculating their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local Woodbury moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Woodbury

When you're selecting a long-distance mover, the wide range of choices can be overwhelming. Here are some tips for choosing a legitimate long-distance mover in Woodbury.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar options for long-distance moves inside one state. To better protect your possessions during the move, we suggest obtaining personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Start collecting estimates several months before your move. Ask for detailed quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Woodbury. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies offer financing plans. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several choices allows you to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what other clients thought about certain long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Friends and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be challenging and costlier to book a moving company. Woodbury also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August 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 suspicious. Reliable movers generally shouldn't demand your complete 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

Booking your moving company well before your move date is critical when getting ready for a long-distance move. We advise booking your move at least three months in advance, or even earlier if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we suggest getting started a month ahead of time. When it comes to fragile, valuable, or sentimental belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

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

Pack a suitcase with essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, toothbrushes, and medicine.

Lastly, make sure to get enough rest the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll provide reimbursement if any of your possessions are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain possessions that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it has less coverage. If you choose this option, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are damaged or lost.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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