10 best long-distance moving companies in Bellevue, WA

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in a variety of ways. When you're moving long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns such as how to move your car.

The right moving professionals can help put your mind at ease. That’s why we’ve created this list of the leading long-distance movers in Bellevue to help you, your family, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies differ in several ways. Local moving companies generally offer moving services within a designated geographic radius. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

Local moving companies are also more likely to charge based on how long a job takes, while long-distance movers more likely to charge based on the weight they're moving. Some moving providers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to determine their final cost, so it's key to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

Local Bellevue moving companies are typically 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 are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Bellevue

Picking the right long-distance moving company in Bellevue requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. Here are some tips for finding a legitimate, reliable long-distance moving company in Bellevue.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, ask about the options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance choices offered by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your possessions. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We recommend seeking out quotes several months ahead of your move. Ask for itemized quotes from several long-distance movers in Bellevue. As you compare estimates, ensure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing options. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help cover cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. We recommend looking into several choices to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what previous customers think about particular long-distance moving companies. You should also ask friends and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Since Bellevue 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: Be wary of movers that offer “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding prices. Trustworthy movers generally won't request your complete payment upfront. If a moving company has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your moving company well before your move date is critical for a successful long-distance move. To ensure a smooth move, book your movers no less than three months before your move date, and possibly even more if you need more unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we recommend getting started a month in advance. You might choose to keep certain sentimental, valuable, or fragile possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than 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.

Pack essentials for the first few days of your move, such as toothbrushes, extra clothes, and medicine.

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if some of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some movers might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but provides more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it has less protection. This plan requires your moving company to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged 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. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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