10 best long-distance moving companies in Keizer, OR

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in severalimportant ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against concerns like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

The right moving professionals can help ease your concerns. We've created this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Keizer so you, your family, and your belongings get to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies typically set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies commonly charge based on the length of time needed for your move. Some moving providers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to determine their prices, so it's important 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. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Keizer

When you're choosing a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of choices may feel overwhelming. See the list below for some advice on finding a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Keizer.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, ask about the insurance options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance choices provided by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Keizer several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies offer financing options. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise looking into several options to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about specific long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. You should also ask friends and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be challenging and more expensive to hire a mover. Keizer also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your full payment upfront. If a mover has a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable piece of advice for long-distance moves is to secure your movers far enough ahead of time. We advise booking your move at least three months beforehand, or possibly earlier if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. When it comes to fragile, valuable, or sentimental items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Writing a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both 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 essentials for the first few days of your move, such as medications, extra clothes, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if some of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable items (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. While Full Value Protection costs more, it provides more coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it gives you reduced coverage. With this plan, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged possessions.

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, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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