10 best long-distance moving companies in Edmonds, WA

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in severalsignificant ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues like how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

The right moving company can help relieve your issues. We've put together this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Edmonds so you, your family, and your belongings make it to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are distinct in many ways. Local movers generally offer moving services within a designated geographic radius. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a significant fee to do so.

Local movers are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight. However, some movers use a mix of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

Local Edmonds moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when relocating to another state. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Edmonds

Hiring the right long-distance mover is important, and the options may be overwhelming. Here are some tips for choosing a legitimate long-distance mover in Edmonds.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. To better protect your belongings during the move, we recommend obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. Request itemized cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Edmonds. Confirm that these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing options to help you afford your move. A moving or relocation loan can cover expenses. Ask your moving company 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 lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what others say about certain long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be difficult and costlier to hire a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in Edmonds, the beginning and end of the semesters 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. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your entire payment upfront. Steer clear of movers that have a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to schedule your moving company well in advance of your move date. We suggest hiring movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

It's also important to make a checklist of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Washington DMV.

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

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it has less coverage. This option requires your moving company to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items damaged or lost 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 after you move. This usually 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