10 best long-distance moving companies in Grants Pass, OR

There are factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with challenges such as how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Choosing the right movers can help ease your challenges. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings reach your new home safely, we've compiled this list of the leading long-distance movers in Grants Pass.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only offer local moves. Local movers generally provide moving services within a designated geographic radius. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. Keep in mind that some moving companies might use both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific location and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Grants Pass

When you're hiring a long-distance mover, the wide range of options may be overwhelming. Below, we offer some tips on how to pick a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Grants Pass.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can inquire about these or other options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. To better protect your possessions during the move, we recommend purchasing personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies 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 moving companies on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Grants Pass several months before your move and get detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing options to help you pay for your move. A moving or relocation loan can help with expenses. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several choices allows you to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others thought about particular long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Friends and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to get a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that offer “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding quotes. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your entire payment upfront. Avoid moving companies that have an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Booking your moving company far enough ahead of time is critical for a successful long-distance move. We suggest booking movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need more specialized moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving 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 Oregon DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by putting together a suitcase with items such as toiletries, medications, and extra clothes.

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your possessions are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide money back for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain items that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection is pricier but offers more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less protection. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are lost or damaged.

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