Kato Moving & Storage Company review 2026 (Mankato, MN)
In business since 1891 · Updated
Kato Moving & Storage Company, a Mankato, MN moving company, ranks #25 of 145 movers in Minnesota, with a moveBuddha rating of 4.36/5.
93% of Kato Moving & Storage Company's 244 verified customer reviews are positive. Customers most often praise its flexibility, while the most common complaint involves damage to items.
In business since 1891, Kato Moving & Storage Company holds active FMCSA registration (USDOT #164252) and operates 7 trucks. Ratings reflect moveBuddha’s independent analysis of customer reviews and FMCSA records.
How Kato Moving & Storage Company measures up
Across 244 reviews, Kato Moving & Storage Company in Mankato, MN is rated 4.8/5 on Google (226 reviews) and 2.5/5 on Yelp (13 reviews), and has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau.
Kato Moving & Storage Company ranks #25 out of 145 movers in Minnesota with a moveBuddha Score of 4.36 out of 5.
What goes into our score
Each category is scored out of 5. The line shows the overall score of 4.36.
- Brand
- 5.0
- Website
- 5.0
- Customer service
- 5.0
- Industry experience
- 5.0
- Review quality
- 4.2
Google rating
Based on 226 reviews
Yelp rating
Based on 13 reviews
Better Business Bureau
Based on BBB profile
Is Kato Moving & Storage Company moveBuddha Certified?
Kato Moving & Storage Company is not moveBuddha Certified. Certified movers are licensed carriers vetted by moveBuddha and spot-checked every quarter. They meet higher standards for insurance, pricing transparency, and customer care.
With a Certified mover, moveBuddha does the vetting for you and provides added protection. Kato Moving & Storage Company hasn't gone through that certification process, so it's important to check licensing, insurance, estimates, and claims policies yourself before booking.
What movebuddha certified movers offer
- Up to $1,000 in added move coverage*. Extra protection for eligible moves.
- Vetted for licensing and insurance**. We verify state-required insurance for local movers and liability and cargo coverage for interstate movers.
- Dedicated moveBuddha support. Help through the move process.
- Dispute mediation. moveBuddha steps in if issues arise.
Before you book, check:
- USDOT and MC numbers. Look up the license and complaint history on FMCSA's site.
- Insurance coverage. Ask for proof of liability and cargo insurance.
- A written estimate. Binding or not-to-exceed, with every fee listed.
- The claims process. Ask how damage claims are filed and how long they take.
* Added move coverage is not replacement-value insurance, or insurance, or an indemnity of any kind. About moveBuddha Certified
** Local movers must hold insurance that meets state requirements for local moves. Interstate movers must carry auto liability of at least $750,000, general liability of at least $1M, and motor truck cargo coverage at or above $5,000 per vehicle and $10,000 per occurrence.
What do customers say about Kato Moving & Storage Company?
Out of 244 verified reviews, 93% of customers left a positive review about Kato Moving & Storage Company in Mankato, MN. 6.6% of reviews are negative and 0.8% are neutral. Kato Moving & Storage Company has a 4% higher positive review percentage than the average Minnesota moving company (93% vs the Minnesota state average of 89%).
- Positive92.6%(226)
- Neutral0.8%(2)
- Negative6.6%(16)
Based on 244 reviews across Google, Yelp, and other review sites.
What customers like about Kato Moving & Storage Company
Flexibility
Clients liked that Kato Moving & Storage Company was willing to adjust schedules or accommodate last-minute changes.
Friendly and approachable staff
Many customers felt at ease working with the courteous and personable team at Kato Moving & Storage Company.
Good communication
Reviewers frequently mention clear, consistent updates from Kato Moving & Storage Company throughout the moving process.
Careful handling
Belongings are treated with caution, and many customers report zero damage thanks to Kato Moving & Storage Company's attention to detail.
Respectful of property
Customers appreciated how carefully Kato Moving & Storage Company's team maneuvered furniture through tight spaces without damaging walls or floors.
What positive reviewers say
“Erin was great to work with prior to the move—super responsive to all of my questions! The team was efficient, careful, friendly and reassuring throughout the move.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer “The flexibility: we did not know the exact timeframe of when the carpet would be done. Erin said no problem! We exchanged several emails back and forth.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer “They treated my belongings with the utmost care, like it was their own. The crew was upbeat, professional, and hardworking.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer “They did a great job protecting our belongings as well as the rental unit. They were very accommodating as we made a few on-the-fly adjustments.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer
What mixed reviewers say
“The Rapidan Dam breach sent terror through me a few months ago. I'm on the East Coast, thinking about the contents of my winter house and praying that all will be safe.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer
Most common complaints about Kato Moving & Storage Company
Damage to items
Some customers reported that items were damaged during packing or loading.
Higher-than-expected costs
Final bills were occasionally much higher than initial estimates, upsetting customers.
Delayed arrival or delivery
Several reviewers experienced frustrating delays either on moving day or with final delivery.
What negative reviewers say
“I was quoted around $100, but I ended up paying double that—$160. The movers were very nice though.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer “After the move, I found tears in my couch. I sent pictures immediately, but almost two weeks later I still had not been contacted about the damage.”
GoogleVerified Reviewer “My belongings were still sitting in their warehouse 3.5 weeks after loading and two weeks past the delivery window. The agent apologized when we called, but never called us.”
YelpVerified Reviewer “They damaged our furniture, moved us inefficiently, and significantly overcharged us. They were not all that pleasant or professional to correspond with.”
YelpVerified Reviewer
Kato Moving & Storage Company
4.36Mankato, MNSince 1891
Save more than 30% on average by comparing movers before you book.
Kato Moving & Storage Company
4.36
Mankato, MN · Since 1891
Save more than 30% on average
On average, moveBuddha users save more than 30% by comparing movers before they book. Get a quote from Kato Moving & Storage Company, then see how it compares with other top-rated movers in Mankato.
Compare prices side by side
See where Kato Moving & Storage Company lands against similar movers.
Vetted movers only
Licensing and reviews checked, just like this page.
Free, no obligation
Nothing is booked until you choose a mover.
What services does Kato Moving & Storage Company offer?
Kato Moving & Storage Company handles local moves, long-distance moves, and international moves from Mankato, MN, with services including packing, unpacking, and storage.
Services offered
Is Kato Moving & Storage Company licensed and insured?
Federally licensed, operating authority active
US DOT 164252 Check on SAFER
Verified against the FMCSA, not by moveBuddha
Yes, Kato Moving & Storage Company is registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration under US DOT number 164252, as MANKATO MOVING AND STORAGE LLC, and its operating status is currently active. It also holds a Minnesota intrastate license, number 125249.
Insurance is a separate question, and one this profile cannot settle: moveBuddha does not receive carriers' insurance filings, so nothing here confirms what cover Kato Moving & Storage Company holds. Ask for a certificate of insurance before you book.
- State license number
- 125249Issued by Minnesota. Covers moves within the state, which the FMCSA does not
- Registered legal name
- MANKATO MOVING AND STORAGE LLCThe entity behind the trading name, as filed with the FMCSA
- Doing business as
- KATO MOVING AND STORAGETrade name on file with the FMCSA
- FMCSA safety rating
- Not ratedMost carriers are unrated. A rating is only assigned after a compliance review. It is not a failed one.
- Trucks registered
- 7Power units reported to the FMCSA
- Miles driven
- 90,000Reported to the FMCSA for 2023
- Roadside inspections
- 0Recorded by the FMCSA
- FMCSA record last updated
- August 2026
How much does Kato Moving & Storage Company cost?
Kato Moving & Storage Company does not publish hourly rates or flat fees publicly. Based on moveBuddha's data on moving companies operating in Minnesota, you can expect to pay approximately $185/hr. Total local-move costs from similar movers typically run $400–$750 for a studio or 1-bedroom, $850–$1,750 for a 2-3 bedroom, and $1,700–$3,400 for a 4+ bedroom home. Long-distance (500-1,000 mi) 2-3 bedroom moves from similar movers typically run $4,500–$7,500.
What similar movers typically bill for a local move
Full-service Minnesota moving companies similar to Kato Moving & Storage Company typically bill the amounts below using a $185/hr rate for a 2-person crew and scaling up for larger homes that need more movers and hours.
| Home size | Typical total | Time and crew |
|---|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $400–$750 | 3–5 hours, 2 movers |
| 2-3 bedrooms | $850–$1,750 | 5–8 hours, 2–3 movers |
| 4+ bedrooms | $1,700–$3,400 | 8–12 hours, 3–4 movers |
What similar movers typically bill for a long-distance move
Kato Moving & Storage Company is licensed for interstate moves, which are typically priced by weight and distance. Ranges below reflect totals from similar full-service Minnesota moving companies.
| Home size | Distance | Typical total |
|---|---|---|
| 2-3 bedrooms | 500–1,000 mi | $4,500–$7,500 |
| 4+ bedrooms | 500–1,000 mi | $7,000–$11,500 |
What payment options and discounts does Kato Moving & Storage Company offer?
- Accepts
- Credit Cards
- Deposit
- Not listed, so ask
Kato Moving & Storage Company accepts credit cards. Deposit policies vary by mover, so ask whether one is required when you request a quote.
How Kato Moving & Storage Company compares with other local movers
With a moveBuddha score of 4.36 out of 5, Kato Moving & Storage Company places fourth when ranked against the four top-rated movers in the Mankato area, 0.06 points behind Action Moving Services, Inc. and 0.06 points ahead of TWO MEN AND A TRUCK. At 244 reviews, Kato Moving & Storage Company has fewer reviews than three of the four.
The four highest-scoring nearby movers, by moveBuddha score.
| # | Mover | Score | Reviews | Yelp | BBB | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Matt's Moving CompanySt. Paul | 4.66 | 1,090 | 4.7 | 3.3 | A+ |
| 2 | AAA MoversNew Hope | 4.62 | 1,782 | 4.4 | 2.4 | A+ |
| 3 | Action Moving Services, Inc.Burnsville | 4.42 | 108 | 4.4 | 2.8 | A+ |
| 4 | Kato Moving & Storage CompanyThis mover · ranks #4 | 4.36 | 244 | 4.8 | 2.5 | A+ |
| 5 | TWO MEN AND A TRUCKMankato | 4.30 | 360 | 4.8 | 5.0 | A+ |
How does Kato Moving & Storage Company compare to other Minnesota movers?
- moveBuddha score#25 of 145(better than average)
4.36vs 3.70 avg
Kato Moving & Storage Company scores 4.36, above the Minnesota average of 3.70, and ranks #25 of 145 Minnesota movers.
- Positive reviews#81 of 145(better than average)
93%vs 89% avg
Kato Moving & Storage Company has 93% positive reviews, above the Minnesota average of 89%, and ranks #81 of 145 Minnesota movers.
- Negative reviews#80 of 145(better than average)
7%vs 10% avg
Kato Moving & Storage Company has 7% negative reviews, below the Minnesota average of 10%, and ranks #80 of 145 Minnesota movers. A lower percentage is better.
- Reviews analyzed#42 of 145(worse than average)
244vs 304 avg
Kato Moving & Storage Company has 244 reviews analyzed, below the Minnesota average of 304, and ranks #42 of 145 Minnesota movers.
- Yelp rating#37 of 145(worse than average)
2.5vs 3.5 avg
Kato Moving & Storage Company has a Yelp rating of 2.5, below the Minnesota average of 3.5, and ranks #37 of 145 Minnesota movers.
- Years in business#2 of 145(better than average)
135 yearsvs 33 years avg
Kato Moving & Storage Company has been in business for 135 years, above the Minnesota average of 33 years, and ranks #2 of 145 Minnesota movers.
| Metric | This moverKato Moving & Storage Company | Minnesota avg | Minnesota rank | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| moveBuddha score#25 of 145 in Minnesota | 4.36 | 3.70 | #25 of 145 | +0.66(better than average) |
| Positive reviews#81 of 145 in Minnesota | 93% | 89% | #81 of 145 | +4 pts(better than average) |
| Negative reviewsLower is better#80 of 145 in Minnesota | 7% | 10% | #80 of 145 | −3 pts(better than average) |
| Reviews analyzed#42 of 145 in Minnesota | 244 | 304 | #42 of 145 | −60(worse than average) |
| Yelp ratingBased on only 13 reviews#37 of 145 in Minnesota | 2.5 | 3.5 | #37 of 145 | −1.0(worse than average) |
| Years in business#2 of 145 in Minnesota | 135 years | 33 years | #2 of 145 | +102(better than average) |
Compared with 145 Minnesota movers with moveBuddha profiles. Rank #1 is the best in Minnesota.
Kato Moving & Storage Company
4.36Mankato, MNSince 1891
Save more than 30% on average by comparing movers before you book.
Save more than 30% on average
On average, moveBuddha users save more than 30% by comparing movers before they book. Get a quote from Kato Moving & Storage Company, then see how it compares with other top-rated movers in Mankato.
Compare prices side by side
See where Kato Moving & Storage Company lands against similar movers.
Vetted movers only
Licensing and reviews checked, just like this page.
Free, no obligation
Nothing is booked until you choose a mover.
Kato Moving & Storage Company
4.36
Mankato, MN · Since 1891
Final verdict: Kato Moving & Storage Company
Kato Moving & Storage Company earns a 4.36/5 moveBuddha Score and ranks #25 among Minnesota movers, with 93% positive feedback across 244 customer reviews.
Customers consistently praise its flexibility and friendly and approachable staff. It is best for customers prioritizing strong communication, crew professionalism, and reliable service experience.
With 7 trucks and a track record dating to 1891, it has more history than the average Minnesota mover, and the most common complaint is damage to items.
All ratings reflect moveBuddha's analysis updated October 2026, based on independent research and verified customer reviews.
Kato Moving & Storage Company
4.36
Mankato, MN · Since 1891
Why moveBuddha?
- 30%+Average savings
On average, moveBuddha users save more than 30% by comparing movers before booking.
Calculate your Minnesota moving cost - $1,000Added move coverage*
When you choose a moveBuddha Certified mover, you get $1,000 in added move coverage*, plus dedicated support throughout your move.
- 1-on-1Dispute mediation
If something goes wrong, moveBuddha provides dispute mediation with Certified movers to help resolve the issue and protect your move.
* Added move coverage is not replacement-value insurance, or insurance, or an indemnity of any kind.
Contact Kato Moving & Storage Company
- Phone
- (507) 388-9329
- Website
- katomoving.com
Helpful Minnesota moving resources
How we score moving companies
Every mover on moveBuddha is scored on the same six factors, weighted by how much each one changes a move.
- Quotes & payment optionsWeighs most
The heaviest factor, because price certainty is where moves go wrong. We reward estimates you can hold a mover to, and terms disclosed before you pay.
- Online reputationMajor factor
An objective read from third parties rather than from the mover. The Google rating for the company's headquarters sets the band; Trustpilot, BBB, and independent review sites are read alongside it.
- ServicesMajor factor
The range a mover can actually cover, scored across seven categories, with extra credit for the uncommon ones most companies hand off to a subcontractor.
- Customer supportSupporting factor
How easily you can reach a human, and how clearly the mover sets expectations before, during, and after the move. Verified against company documentation and direct outreach.
- Review feedbackSupporting factor
A company's share of positive customer feedback, converted straight to points, with no curve and no editorial adjustment.
- State availabilityMinor factor
The lightest factor, and deliberately so: wide coverage helps more readers reach a mover, but it says nothing about how good the move will be.
What the scores are built on
- 4,500+Moving companies analyzed
- 1M+Authenticated reviews
- 25+Independent data sources
- 1,000+Live price points a month
- $0Paid for a ranking
- MonthlyRefreshed and re-verified
Written by
Ryan CarriganCo-founder, moveBuddha
Ryan Carrigan is the co-founder of moveBuddha and a leading voice in the moving industry, helping hundreds of thousands of Americans make smarter, safer relocation decisions each year. With more than a decade of experience analyzing moving companies, pricing trends, and industry regulations, Ryan brings hands-on industry knowledge and data-driven insight to every guide and review. His research has been featured in Forbes, Consumer Reports, The New York Times, and NBC News.