10 best long-distance moving companies in Spokane, WA

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in severalimportant ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

Put your mind at ease by hiring the best moving professionals for the job. We've created this list of the leading long-distance movers in Spokane so you, your loved ones, and your possessions arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are a few key differences to note. Local movers usually only operate within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to set fees based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies are more likely to charge by time. However, some providers use a mix of time and weight to calculate their rates, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific city and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves is invaluable. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Spokane

Selecting the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options may be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of picking a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Spokane, we've compiled some guidance below.

• 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. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: We advise seeking out quotes several months before your move. Get in touch with multiple long-distance moving providers in Spokane and get detailed cost breakdowns. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing plans. 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 multiple choices to make sure you find 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 specific long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be challenging and costlier to get a moving company. Spokane 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: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your entire payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies that have an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

An important piece of advice for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough in advance. We recommend booking your move at least 90 days in advance, or even earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You might choose to keep certain fragile, valuable, or sentimental items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

It's also important to make 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.

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

Lastly, 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 protect you if some of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable possessions (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. 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 for free, but it has less protection. This plan requires your moving company to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings damaged or lost during the move.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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