5 best long-distance moving companies in Wenatchee, WA

There are a variety of factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by choosing the right moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Wenatchee to help you, your family, and your possessions make it 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 a few key differences to keep in mind. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only offer services within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge by weight, while local moving companies more often charge based on time. Some moving companies, however, may use a combination of time and weight to determine their rates, so it's necessary to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be more affordable), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, especially when it comes to moving from one state to another. Choosing a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Wenatchee

Selecting the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options may feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for finding a legitimate long-distance mover in Wenatchee.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves within the same state, looking into these or other options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance choices carried by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to supply a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in Wenatchee several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Confirm that these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing options to help you pay for your move. 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. Looking into several loans allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what previous customers have said about certain long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to book and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you cautious. Legitimate movers generally won't request your complete payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies that have a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Hiring your movers far enough in advance is essential when planning a long-distance move. To ensure an easy move, secure your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need more unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

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

Creating a checklist of all the things that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Washington DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Put together essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as medications, toothbrushes, and extra clothes.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because 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. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. Some movers may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. While Full Value Protection costs more, it offers more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it provides less coverage. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are damaged or lost.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your 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