3 best long-distance moving companies in Yakima, WA

There are a variety of importantfactors 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 concerns such as how to move your car.

The right movers can help ease your concerns. We've created this guide to the best long-distance movers in Yakima so you, your family, and your possessions arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in a few ways. Local movers only work within a specific geographic radius and usually charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to such jobs at all.

Local movers are also more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes, while long-distance movers more likely to charge based on the weight. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when setting their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Although local movers may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, especially 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 relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Yakima

Selecting the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices can be overwhelming. See the list below for some recommendations on choosing a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Yakima.

• 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. For long-distance moves inside one state, asking about these or similar insurance options is a good idea. To better protect your belongings during the move, we recommend obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers provide customers with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Start collecting quotes several months ahead of your move. Get itemized quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Yakima. Make sure these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong choice to help cover expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several loans allows you to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what previous customers say about specific long-distance moving companies. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and relatives.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that provide “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding quotes. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your full payment upfront. If a moving company has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to book your moving company well before of your move date. To ensure a smooth move, book your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. You might choose to keep certain valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

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

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a bag with items such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, medicine, and extra clothes.

The night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is a necessity since it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it provides less protection. With this insurance, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. 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