7 best long-distance moving companies in Walla Walla, WA

There are factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges like how to move your car.

Choosing the right moving professionals can help alleviate your challenges. That’s why we’ve put together this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Walla Walla to help you, your family, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are distinct in many ways. Local moving companies generally offer moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a significant fee to do so.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers are more likely to charge by time. Certain moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when setting their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Local Walla Walla moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and experience, especially when moving between states. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Walla Walla

When you're selecting a long-distance mover, the wide range of options may feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for picking a legitimate long-distance mover in Walla Walla.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, look into the options provided by your mover. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to fully protect your possessions. 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 reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to supply a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Walla Walla several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Make sure these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies offer financing plans. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help with expenses. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several choices allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what other customers thought about certain long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Friends and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be difficult and costlier to hire a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your full payment before the move. If a moving company has a long history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Hiring your movers far enough ahead of time is essential 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 particular moving services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we advise getting started a month ahead of time. When it comes to fragile, sentimental, or valuable belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Make a list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move. The list should include items such as updating your address with the Washington DMV.

Put together essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as medicine, extra clothes, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

The night before moving day, remember to get a good night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll pay you back if any of your possessions are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide money back for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable items (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection is more expensive but includes more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it has reduced coverage. With this insurance, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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