10 best long-distance moving companies in Lake Stevens, WA

There are a range of factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against concerns such as how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Put your mind at ease by picking the best movers for the job. We've created this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Lake Stevens so you, your family, and your possessions arrive 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 a few ways. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only work within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it 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 moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight. However, some providers use a combination of time and weight to calculate their rates, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

Local Lake Stevens moving companies are often more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when relocating to another state. Long-distance moving companies 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 Lake Stevens

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options can be overwhelming, making it difficult to hire the right one for your move. See the list below for some recommendations on choosing a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Lake Stevens.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, look into the options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance choices offered by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance coverage 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: Request quotes several months in advance to ensure you have plenty of time to plan your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to request itemized quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Lake Stevens. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies have financing plans. A moving or relocation loan can pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare a few choices to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about particular long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be challenging and more expensive to book a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that offer “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding estimates. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your full payment upfront. If a mover has an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful tip for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough in advance. To ensure a stress-free move, hire your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might prefer to keep certain fragile, sentimental, or valuable possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving 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.

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

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is a necessity because it'll protect you if any 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 repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. Full Value Protection is more expensive but gives you greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less protection. This plan requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings 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. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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