10 best long-distance moving companies in University Place, WA

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in severalimportant ways. When you're moving between states, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Lessen your worries by picking the best moving professionals for the job. We've compiled this guide to the top long-distance movers in University Place so you, your loved ones, and your possessions make it to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are different in several ways. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only work within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight. Keep in mind that some movers might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Although local movers may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when moving from one state to another. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in University Place

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the choices can feel overwhelming, making it challenging to hire the right one for your needs. To help you navigate the process of finding a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in University Place, we've put together some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can ask about these or other insurance options for long-distance moves within the same state. To completely protect your belongings during the move, we suggest obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance choices 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 qualified company is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have adequate time to plan your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to ask for itemized quotes from several long-distance movers in University Place. Confirm that these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing plans to help you pay for your move. A moving or relocation loan can help with expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several options allows you to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what other clients think about specific long-distance movers. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to get and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. University Place also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that provide “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding quotes. Trustworthy moving companies generally won't request your complete payment upfront. If a mover has a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Finding your moving company well before your move date is key when planning a long-distance move. We suggest scheduling movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need specialized moving 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 probably have sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have 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 before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Washington DMV.

Pack necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as medications, toothbrushes, and extra clothes.

The night before your move, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain possessions that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. While Full Value Protection is more expensive, it offers better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it has less coverage. With this option, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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