10 best long-distance moving companies in Lynnwood, WA

There are a range of factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns like how to move your car.

Hiring the right movers can help lessen your challenges. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to the top long-distance movers in Lynnwood to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ from those that only offer local moves. Local movers typically only operate within a certain geographic radius. They'll usually charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local movers more often set fees based on time. Some moving providers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to determine their rates, so it's necessary to check your provider's pricing structure.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be more affordable), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Lynnwood

Picking the right long-distance moving company in Lynnwood requires research to make sure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. Below, we provide some tips on how to pick a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Lynnwood.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can ask about these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. In addition to the insurance coverage provided by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance coverage in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months in advance to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to request detailed cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Lynnwood. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We suggest looking into several options to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what previous customers say about certain long-distance movers. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and more expensive to get a mover. Since Lynnwood is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you suspicious. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your full payment upfront. If a moving company has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to book your moving company well before of your move date. To ensure a stress-free move, hire your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and possibly even more if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we advise getting started a month in advance. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Writing a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done 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 medicine, extra clothes, and toiletries.

The night before moving day, don't forget to get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll give you money back if any of your items are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain possessions that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. While Full Value Protection costs more, it offers more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it has less coverage. With this insurance, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. 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