10 best long-distance moving companies in Corvallis, OR

Long-distance or interstate moves bring unique challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

Lessen your problems by choosing the right moving professionals for the job. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings get to your new home safely, we've put together this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Corvallis.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only do local moves. Local movers typically only operate within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers are more likely to charge by time. Some moving providers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to set their rates, so it's necessary to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific location and potentially offer less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance movers can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Corvallis

Picking the right long-distance mover is important, and the options can be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of choosing a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Corvallis, we've compiled some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, looking into these or other insurance options is a good idea. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to completely protect your belongings. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers provide a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start collecting quotes several months ahead of your move. Ask for itemized quotes from several long-distance movers in Corvallis. Make sure these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing plans. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help cover expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We suggest looking into several choices to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what previous customers have said about specific long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be difficult and more expensive to book a mover. Corvallis also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that provide “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding estimates. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment before the move. Avoid moving companies that have a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Finding your movers far enough in advance is key when planning a long-distance move. We suggest booking your move at least 90 days in advance, or even earlier if you need specialized 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 fragile, valuable, or sentimental belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of all the necessary tasks both before and after your move, such as notifying the Oregon DMV of your new address.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, medications, and extra clothes.

The night before your move, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. Some movers might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it gives less coverage. This option requires your moving company to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings damaged or lost during the move.

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

Oregon Driver & Motor Vehicle Services U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration