10 best long-distance moving companies in Bothell, WA

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in many ways. 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.

The right movers can help put your mind at ease. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home safely, we've created this list of the best long-distance movers in Bothell.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in several ways. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only offer services within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies more often charge based on time. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly 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 Bothell

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options can feel overwhelming, making it difficult to hire the right one for you. Below, we offer some recommendations on how to choose a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Bothell.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. 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. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed discussion 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 taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Bothell several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Ensure these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several loans allows you to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about specific long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and relatives.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and more expensive to get a mover. Since Bothell is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you suspicious. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your full payment before the move. If a moving company has a long history of negative 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

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to reserve your moving company well in advance of your move date. We recommend scheduling your move at least three months in advance, or even earlier if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we recommend starting a month in advance. When it comes to sentimental, valuable, or fragile 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.

To stay organized, write 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 toothbrushes, extra clothes, and medications.

The night before your move, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less protection. With this option, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy after you move. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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