10 best long-distance moving companies in Happy Valley, OR

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

Choosing the right moving professionals can help alleviate your problems. We've compiled this list of the best long-distance movers in Happy Valley so you, your family, and your possessions arrive to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are distinct in several ways. Local movers usually only offer services within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies often set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies usually set fees based on the length of time needed for your move. Some moving providers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to determine their final cost, so it's important to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

When faced with a long-distance 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 is indispensable. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Happy Valley

When you're choosing a long-distance moving company, the wide range of options can be overwhelming. See the list below for some tips on picking a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Happy Valley.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves inside one state. In addition to the insurance options offered by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to supply customers with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Start seeking out quotes several months before your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to get itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Happy Valley. Ensure these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing plans to help you pay for your move. A moving or relocation loan can pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple options to make sure you find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what other customers have said about particular long-distance moving companies. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be difficult and costlier to book a moving company. Since Happy Valley is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that provide “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding prices. Trustworthy movers generally won't request your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies that have a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to schedule your moving company well in advance of your move date. We advise hiring movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You might choose to keep certain valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Making a checklist of all the tasks 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.

Pack a bag with essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as medicine, extra clothes, and toiletries.

Lastly, make sure to get enough rest the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers have to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain belongings that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it gives less protection. This option requires your movers to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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