10 best long-distance moving companies in Washington, MI

There are several factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with challenges such as how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the right moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve created this list of the top long-distance movers in Washington to help you, your family, and your belongings make it 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 a few key differences to consider. Local moving companies generally offer moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local movers more often set fees based on time. However, some movers use a mix of time and weight to calculate their prices, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, especially when moving from one state to another. Using a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Washington

When you're picking a long-distance mover, the wide variety of options may feel overwhelming. See the list below for some advice on picking a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Washington.

• 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. To fully protect your belongings during the move, we suggest obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. We discuss long-distance moving insurance options in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Washington several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, ensure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing plans to help you afford your move. A moving or relocation loan can help pay for some of the cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare several choices to make sure you select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what others have said about certain long-distance movers. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be challenging and costlier to get a mover. Since Washington is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you wary. Legitimate moving companies generally shouldn't request your complete payment upfront. If a mover has a history of bad 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 key tip for long-distance moves is to find your movers far enough ahead of time. To ensure a stress-free move, hire your movers no less than three months before your move date, and potentially even more if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. When it comes to fragile, valuable, or sentimental belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

We also suggest making a checklist of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Michigan 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 medications, extra clothes, and toiletries.

The night before your big move, don't forget to get a full night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll pay you back if any of your items are lost or damagedby your movers.

All interstate movers must have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement 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. Full Value Protection is more expensive but offers better coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it provides less protection. With this option, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

Michigan Department of State U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration