10 best long-distance moving companies in Olympia, WA

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in many ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with challenges like how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Selecting the right movers can help ease your challenges. We've created this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Olympia so you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are different in a few ways. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic area. They'll usually charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

Local movers are also more likely to charge based on how long a job takes, while long-distance movers more likely to charge based on the weight. Some movers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to calculate their rates, so it's necessary to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Local Olympia 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 save you time and headaches 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 Olympia

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options may be overwhelming, making it challenging to pick the right one for your needs. See the list below for some guidance on picking a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Olympia.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is inside one state, inquire about the insurance options provided by your mover. We also suggest getting your own moving insurance to fully protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We recommend seeking out quotes several months before your move. Get in touch with multiple long-distance moving providers in Olympia and get itemized quotes. Confirm that these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing plans to help you pay for your move. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help cover expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several choices allows you to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others have said about certain long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Also, get recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be challenging and costlier to get a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you wary. Reliable moving companies generally won't request your complete payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies that have an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key tip for long-distance moves is to book your movers far enough ahead of time. We recommend booking your move at least three months ahead of time, or possibly earlier if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Create a list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move. The list should include things such as updating your address with the Washington DMV.

Pack essentials for the first few days, such as medications, extra clothes, and toothbrushes.

The night before moving day, don't forget to get a full night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain items that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. Full Value Protection is more expensive but includes more coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it gives you reduced coverage. With this option, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy after you move. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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