10 best long-distance moving companies in Orchards, WA

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in severalsignificant ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges such as how to move your car.

The right moving company can help alleviate your issues. We've put together this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Orchards so you, your family, and your possessions make it to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies usually set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers commonly set fees based on the length of time needed for your move. Some moving companies, however, may use a mix of time and weight to determine their final cost, so it's necessary to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

Local Orchards moving companies are generally more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when relocating to another state. Hiring a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Orchards

Choosing the right long-distance mover is important, and the options can feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Orchards, we've gathered some guidance below.

• 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. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, inquiring about these or similar options is a good idea. We also suggest getting your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers supply a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months in advance to ensure you have adequate time to plan your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to request itemized quotes from several long-distance movers in Orchards. Confirm that these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of 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 financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend looking into several loans to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what previous clients say about certain long-distance moving companies. You should also ask friends and family for 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 hire a moving company. Orchards also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you cautious. Additionally, trustworthy movers shouldn’t demand the full payment upfront. Avoid movers that have an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A great tip for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough in advance. It's best if you schedule your move at least three months in advance. This gives you enough time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need more specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. You probably have fragile, sentimental, or valuable belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep 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 a toothbrush and toothpaste.

Finally, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable items (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection is pricier but gives you better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it gives less coverage. If you choose this option, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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