10 best long-distance moving companies in Auburn, WA

Long-distance or interstate moves present unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against challenges such as how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Hiring the right movers can help alleviate your problems. We've compiled this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Auburn so you, your loved ones, and your belongings get 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 distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

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

Local Auburn moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when relocating to another state. Long-distance movers 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 Auburn

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the choices may be overwhelming, making it challenging to hire the right one for your needs. To help you navigate the process of choosing a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Auburn, we've compiled some advice below.

• 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 insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. To completely protect your possessions during the move, we suggest getting personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: We suggest looking for quotes several months before your move. Contact several long-distance moving providers in Auburn and request itemized quotes. Make sure 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. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several loans allows you to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what others say about specific long-distance moving companies. You should also ask neighbors and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be difficult and costlier to hire a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Auburn, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that give you “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding estimates. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your entire payment upfront. If a moving company has a history of poor 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

Hiring your movers well before your move date is essential for a successful long-distance move. To ensure a smooth move, secure your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need more unique services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we recommend starting a month in advance. You probably have fragile, sentimental, or valuable belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as notifying the Washington DMV of your new address.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a suitcase with items such as medications, extra clothes, and toothbrushes.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection is pricier, it offers better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less protection. This insurance requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy during your move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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