10 best long-distance moving companies in Silver Firs, WA

There are a variety of importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

Put your mind at ease by picking the right moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve made this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Silver Firs to help you, your family, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers are more likely to charge by time. Some moving companies, however, may use a mix of time and weight to determine their rates, so it's important to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when moving between states. Choosing 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 headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Silver Firs

Selecting the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices can feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for choosing a legitimate long-distance mover in Silver Firs.

• 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. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, inquire about the options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance coverage provided by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a qualified mover. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Silver Firs several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs 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 afford your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong choice to help cover expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise looking into several options to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what others have said about particular long-distance moving companies. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to get and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months. Silver Firs also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you cautious. Legitimate movers generally won't ask for your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of movers with an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key piece of advice for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough ahead of time. It's best if you plan your move at least 90 days in advance. This gives you plenty of time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. When it comes to valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

We also advise making 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.

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

Finally, on the night before moving day, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll reimburse you if any of your belongings are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but includes better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less protection. With this plan, your movers will pay 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 carry over the same policy during your move. While this typically 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