10 best long-distance moving companies in Tacoma, WA

Long-distance or interstate moves present their own challenges that set them apart from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against challenges like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Put your mind at ease by picking the best movers for the job. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home without incident, we've created this guide to the best long-distance movers in Tacoma.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are different in several ways. Local moving companies only operate within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to these jobs at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. However, some companies use a mix of time and weight to calculate their rates, so be sure to ask 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 location and potentially offer less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves is invaluable. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Tacoma

When you're selecting a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of choices may feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for choosing a trustworthy long-distance mover in Tacoma.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, inquiring about these or similar insurance options is a good idea. To better protect your possessions during the move, we recommend getting your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company 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 requesting estimates several months ahead of your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to request detailed quotes from several long-distance movers in Tacoma. Confirm that these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing plans to help you pay for your move. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help with cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare a few options to make sure you find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about certain long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. You should also ask friends and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be challenging and costlier to get a moving company. Tacoma 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 offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you suspicious. Trustworthy movers generally won't request your complete payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies with a 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 good piece of advice for long-distance moves is to reserve your movers far enough in advance. We advise hiring movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You might choose to keep certain sentimental, fragile, or valuable possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

It's also important to make a checklist of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Washington DMV.

Pack a suitcase with necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as extra clothes, medicine, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers 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 belongings (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. Although Full Value Protection costs more, it offers greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it gives you reduced coverage. If you choose this plan, your moving company 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