10 best long-distance moving companies in Spokane Valley, WA

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in several ways. When you're moving long-distance, you may come up against higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Alleviate your worries by hiring the best moving professionals for the job. We've created this guide to the best long-distance movers in Spokane Valley so you, your family, and your belongings make it to your new home safely.

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 moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

Local movers are also more likely to charge based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight they're moving. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when setting their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves is invaluable. Choosing a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary 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 Spokane Valley

When you're choosing a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of choices may feel overwhelming. See the list below for some recommendations on picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Spokane Valley.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can inquire about these or similar options. In addition to the insurance options offered by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to supply a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start requesting quotes several months before your move. Contact several long-distance moving providers in Spokane Valley and request detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing plans. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple choices to make sure you find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what other clients say about certain long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be difficult and costlier to book a mover. Since Spokane Valley is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Reliable movers generally won't ask for your complete payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies with a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A good piece of advice for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough ahead of time. To ensure an easy move, schedule your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and possibly even more if you need more unique services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we suggest starting a month ahead of time. You might prefer to keep certain fragile, sentimental, or valuable items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Putting together a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both 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.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a suitcase with items such as medications, extra clothes, and toiletries.

The night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is vital since it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less coverage. This insurance requires your moving company to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy after you move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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