5 best long-distance moving companies in Rapid City, SD

Long-distance or interstate moves bring unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by choosing the right movers for the job. We've created this guide to the best long-distance movers in Rapid City so you, your family, and your belongings arrive to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only do local moves. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often 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.

Local moving companies 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. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when setting their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Local Rapid City moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when moving between states. Long-distance movers can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Rapid City

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options may be overwhelming, making it difficult to select the right one for your needs. Below, we have compiled some recommendations on how to find a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Rapid City.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or other options. In addition to the insurance options offered by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your possessions. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to provide customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Rapid City several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you might need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to 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 choices allows you to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others thought about particular long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Additionally, reliable moving companies won't ask for the full payment upfront. If a mover has a long history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A good tip for long-distance moves is to find your movers far enough in advance. We recommend planning your move at least 90 days in advance, or possibly earlier if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. When it comes to fragile, valuable, or sentimental belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

We also suggest making a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the South Dakota DMV.

Put together a bag with essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as medicine, extra clothes, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

The night before your big move, remember to get a good night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is vital because it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers are required to offer 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 movers might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less protection. This plan requires your moving company to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions damaged or lost during the move.

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

Sources

South Dakota Department of Public Safety U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration