10 best long-distance moving companies in Longview, WA

Long-distance or interstate moves bring unique challenges that distinguish them from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Choosing the right movers can help relieve your concerns. That’s why we’ve put together this overview of the best long-distance movers in Longview to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in several ways. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

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

Local Longview moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Longview

When you're hiring a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of options may be overwhelming. Below, we have compiled some advice on how to pick a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Longview.

• 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 customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, look into the options provided by your mover. To completely protect your possessions during the move, we suggest obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Longview several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies offer financing plans. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help with expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few loans to make sure you get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what others have said about certain long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and loved ones 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 more expensive to get a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Additionally, trustworthy movers won't demand the full payment upfront. Avoid moving companies with a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Booking your moving company far enough ahead of time is key when planning a long-distance move. To ensure a stress-free move, schedule your movers no less than three months before your move date, and possibly even more if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we recommend starting a month in advance. You probably have valuable, sentimental, or fragile belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, write a detailed list of all the necessary tasks both before and after your move, such as notifying the Washington DMV of your new address.

Put together a suitcase with essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, extra clothes, and medicine.

Lastly, make sure to get a full night’s sleep the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll cover the cost if any of your possessions are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer 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 movers might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but gives you more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less protection. If you choose this option, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy during your move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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