6 best long-distance moving companies in Kennewick, WA

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in significant ways. When you're moving between states, you may encounter higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the best moving professionals for the job. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings reach your new home safely, we've compiled this guide to the top long-distance movers in Kennewick.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are a few key differences to note. Local movers only operate within a specific geographic radius and usually charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such requests at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers typically set fees based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies often charge based on the length of time required for your move. However, some providers use a combination of time and weight to set their prices, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

Local Kennewick moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Long-distance movers can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Kennewick

Choosing the right long-distance mover in Kennewick requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. Here are some tips for choosing a trustworthy long-distance mover in Kennewick.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or other insurance options. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance choices 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 reputable mover is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers provide a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Kennewick several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing options to help you afford your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare several options to make sure you select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what previous clients have said about specific long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Friends and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and costlier to hire a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that give you “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding prices. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your full payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies with a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A good piece of advice for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough in advance. We recommend hiring movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need more specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. When it comes to valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Putting together a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Washington DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

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

The night before your big move, don't forget to get a good night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

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

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy during your move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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