10 best long-distance moving companies in Camas, WA

Long-distance or interstate moves present their own challenges that set them apart from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may come up against higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move your car.

Alleviate your problems by picking the right moving professionals for the job. We've made this list of the best long-distance movers in Camas so you, your loved ones, and your possessions arrive to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only assist with local moves. Local movers often only work within a certain geographic radius. They'll usually charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

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

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific city and potentially offer less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves is indispensable. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress 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 Camas

When you're selecting a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of options can feel overwhelming. Below, we have compiled some guidance on how to choose a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Camas.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. To better protect your belongings during the move, we suggest obtaining personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to provide a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start requesting estimates several months before your move. Contact several long-distance moving providers in Camas and get itemized cost breakdowns. Ensure these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies offer financing options. A moving or relocation loan can cover expenses. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several options allows you to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what previous customers have said about certain long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Friends and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and costlier to get a mover. Camas also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Additionally, reputable moving companies shouldn’t request the full payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies that have an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. 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 hire your moving company well before of your move date. We advise booking movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

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

To stay organized, make a detailed list of everything that needs to be done both 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 putting together a suitcase with items such as medicine, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and extra clothes.

Lastly, make sure to get enough rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll provide reimbursement if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

All interstate movers have to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. While Full Value Protection costs more, it gives you more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it provides less protection. If you choose this option, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy during your move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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