10 best long-distance moving companies in Eugene, OR

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in several ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

Choosing the right movers can help relieve your issues. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've put together this overview of the top long-distance movers in Eugene.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only assist with local moves. Local moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a significant fee to do so.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies commonly charge based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies typically set fees based on the time required for your move. Some moving companies, however, may use a mix of time and weight to determine their final cost, so it's key to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Local Eugene moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when moving between states. Hiring 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 Eugene

Choosing the right long-distance mover is important, and the options can be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of picking a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Eugene, we've put together some recommendations below.

• 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, inquiring about these or similar options is a good idea. To fully protect your belongings during the move, we suggest getting your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. We discuss long-distance moving insurance options in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to supply customers with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Eugene several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Make sure these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several choices allows you to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what previous customers say about specific long-distance movers. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and loved ones.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and more expensive to book a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in Eugene, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you suspicious. Trustworthy movers generally shouldn't request your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies that have an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

An important tip for long-distance moves is to find your movers far enough in advance. We recommend planning your move at least 90 days in advance, or even earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we advise starting a month ahead of time. You might prefer to have certain items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Write 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 Oregon DMV.

Pack essentials for the first few days of your move, such as medications, extra clothes, and toothbrushes.

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

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 damaged.

All interstate movers need to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection is more expensive, it offers more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it provides reduced coverage. This option requires your movers to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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