Between packing your bags, managing deadlines, and leaving a place you’ve called home, long-distance moves can feel like a lot to take on all at once.
In fact, 82% of people say moving is stressful, and over a quarter say it’s even more overwhelming than losing a job. More than a third of people said moving was more stressful than planning a wedding, 29% said moving was more stressful than having a baby, and 19% said it was more stressful than getting a divorce!
As such, the last thing you need is the added stress of a moving company not showing up, changing the price, or disappearing halfway through.
If you’re planning a long-distance move to or from Richland, it pays to partner with movers who know the area inside and out and have a proven track record with cross-country relocations. Local expertise, clear communication, and dependable service can go a long way in reducing the headaches that come with long-distance moving.
In this post, we’ll break down what to look for in a long-distance moving company, which red flags to avoid, and why many Tri-Cities residents trust Larsen Transfer for their out-of-state moves.
What Makes a Long-Distance Mover Reliable?
Not all moving companies are set up to handle the challenges of the long-distance moving process. Some cut corners. Others overpromise and underdeliver.
Here’s what sets the best long-distance moving companies apart:
Proper Licensing and Registration for Long-Distance Moves
If a mover crosses state lines, they must be registered with the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT). That number is your way to confirm they’re operating legally, and gives you access to safety and complaint records. You can look it up on the FMCSA website to check a mover’s DOT number.
Genuine Reviews and Local Reputation
Look for movers with consistently positive feedback on their website, and trusted platforms like Yelp, Google, or Angie’s List. Pay special attention to reviews about long-distance moves.
Clear, Written Moving Estimates
A trustworthy mover gives you a written quote with all the details of their long-distance moving services. The estimate should clearly outline what’s included and how pricing works.
Responsive and Helpful Communication
From the first phone call to the final delivery, a good mover should be easy to reach and upfront about how everything works. If you’re getting brushed off or left with more questions than answers, that’s a red flag.
Experience Specifically With Long-Distance Moves
If you’re moving out of state (or even planning an international move), you’ll need to consider timing, weather-related delays, route planning, and more. Choose a mover who has handled this type of move before and can guide you through the intricate process.
Key Questions to Ask Before Booking a Moving Company
Even if a company seems promising, asking a few direct questions can help you feel more confident about your decision. Here’s what you’ll want to ask upfront:
Are you licensed and insured for interstate moves?
This is non-negotiable. Licensing and insurance protect both you and your belongings if something goes wrong during the move. Don’t be afraid to ask for proof.
What’s included in your quote?
Don’t assume everything is included; ask if packing, loading, unloading, and storage are part of the quote or if extra fees apply. If you’ll need storage, check if they offer options, such as temporary or climate-controlled units.
At Larsen Transfer, we offer flexible storage solutions, which can be a big help if your new place isn’t move-in ready.
Do you use your own crew or subcontract?
Long-distance movers who hire their own team, like Larsen Transfer, offer better quality and service. Outsourcing can cause communication problems or make the experience less predictable, especially if you’re moving cross-country.
How do you handle fragile or valuable items?
If you have anything breakable or high-value, like heirlooms or electronics, ask exactly how they’ll keep those items safe during the move.
What happens if there’s a delay or damage?
Delays or damage can happen, so it’s important to know what the process looks like. A dependable mover will walk you through how claims work and what’s covered.
Red Flags to Watch Out for in Professional Movers
The moving industry, like any other, has its fair share of bad actors. Here are some warning signs that great moving companies simply don’t exhibit:
Extremely Low Quotes
If a quote is significantly lower than others, ask why. It could mean they’re cutting corners or planning to add charges later.
No Physical Address
A legitimate moving company should have a local office or warehouse. If you can’t find a location or they won’t give you one, stay away.
Missing or Poor Reviews
If there are few reviews or too many complaints that seem unresolved, that’s not a risk worth taking (especially when moving cross-country).
Vague Answers About Insurance or Delivery
You deserve clear, direct information. If a long-distance mover dodges questions or changes the subject, that’s a sign of trouble.
Why Local Knowledge Makes a Difference in Long-Distance Services
Major national brands might have name recognition, but they don’t always understand what you really need when moving long distance, in or out of Richland.
Local movers like Larsen Transfer understand the layout of Tri-Cities neighborhoods, regional road conditions, and the best times to move based on local weather conditions. They also know how to navigate rural areas or narrow residential streets, details that can be confusing for a mover unfamiliar with the area.
Why So Many in Richland Trust Larsen Transfer for Stress-Free Cross-Country Moves
Larsen Transfer is a family-owned company rooted in the Richland community. Here’s what sets us apart:
Locally Owned & Operated
With Larsen Transfer, you’ll work with a team that knows the area, lives in the community, and prides itself on doing a quality job. Instead of being tossed around by a call center, you’ll work with a responsive, familiar, and always-reachable local team.
Licensed & Insured
We are licensed for interstate moves and have adequate insurance to protect your belongings. This gives you peace of mind knowing your move is in good hands and that, should the unexpected occur, you are covered with comprehensive services.
Highly Rated by Neighbors
Larsen Transfer has earned a lot of trust in Richland and the surrounding areas. Customers often mention how professional, courteous, and dependable our team is, and how much easier we made a far or local move feel.
Full-Service Moving Options
We help you pack your belongings, load the truck, stow anything that needs securing, and transport everything safely to your new home. This way, you won’t have to worry about coordinating between different teams or figuring out who’s in charge.
Whether you’re relocating for work, retiring out of state, or starting a new chapter in your life, Larsen Transfer offers dependable support that makes a long-distance move effortless.
Leaving Richland? Hire Long-Distance Moving Services You Can Trust.
Choosing the right long-distance moving company means less stress, fewer surprises, and more time to focus on settling in.
A move across the country can feel overwhelming, but a reliable residential moving company will help you stay on track. With the right team, you won’t have to worry about the details; you can focus on the transition ahead. Planning a long-distance move out of Richland or to Richland? Contact Larsen Transfer for a free estimate on long-distance moving services and experience the difference of working with a full-service moving company you can actually depend on.
