10 best long-distance moving companies in Redmond, WA

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

Selecting the right movers can help lessen your issues. That’s why we’ve compiled this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Redmond to help you, your family, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only do local moves. 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 radius and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on time. Keep in mind that some movers might incorporate both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Local Redmond moving companies are typically more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and experience, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Redmond

Picking the right long-distance moving company in Redmond requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. See the list below for some guidance on choosing a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Redmond.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. To fully protect your belongings during the move, we recommend obtaining personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers supply a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start getting estimates several months ahead of your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to get itemized cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Redmond. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing plans to help you pay for your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several options to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what previous clients have said about particular long-distance movers. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means movers may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Redmond also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you wary. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your entire payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies that have a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful tip for long-distance moves is to book your movers far enough ahead of time. To ensure a stress-free move, secure your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and possibly even more if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

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

Creating a checklist of all the things 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.

Put together essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, toothbrushes, and medicine.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll reimburse you if any of your items 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 settlement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. While Full Value Protection is more expensive, it gives you more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it provides reduced coverage. With this insurance, 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. This usually 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