10 best long-distance moving companies in Tukwila, WA

There are several factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with challenges such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

The right moving professionals can help put your mind at ease. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Tukwila to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are several key differences to consider. Local movers often only work within a certain geographic area. They'll usually 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 by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on time. However, some movers use a combination of time and weight to set their prices, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

Local Tukwila movers may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Tukwila

When you're hiring a long-distance mover, the wide range of options can be overwhelming. Below, we have compiled some advice on how to choose a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Tukwila.

• 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 look into these or other insurance options. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to completely protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers provide a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Tukwila several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Confirm that these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing options to help you pay for your move. A moving or relocation loan can help pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several choices allows you to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what other customers have said about particular long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your friends and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be difficult and more expensive to hire a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Tukwila, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that provide “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding quotes. Legitimate moving companies generally shouldn't demand your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key piece of advice for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough ahead of time. To ensure a stress-free move, find your movers no less than 90 days ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we suggest getting started a month ahead of time. When it comes to valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

Put together a list of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move. The list should include things such as updating your address with the Washington DMV.

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

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. 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 replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but offers greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less coverage. With this plan, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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