10 best long-distance moving companies in Lake Oswego, OR

There are many importantfactors 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 lessen your challenges. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home safely, we've created this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Lake Oswego.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are different in many ways. Local movers usually only operate within a certain geographic area. They'll usually 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 charge based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies usually set fees based on the length of time required for your move. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when calculating their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local Lake Oswego moving companies are often more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when relocating to another state. Long-distance moving companies 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 Lake Oswego

Hiring the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices may be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of choosing a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Lake Oswego, we've gathered some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two kinds of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. We also suggest getting your own moving insurance to completely protect your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance options in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to supply clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Lake Oswego 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 other services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong strategy to help pay for some of the cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several choices allows you to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what other customers say about particular long-distance moving companies. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• 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 costlier to hire a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in Lake Oswego, the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you cautious. Additionally, legitimate movers won't demand the full payment before the move. If a mover has an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to hire your moving company well in advance of your move date. We recommend planning your move at least three months in advance, or possibly earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we recommend starting a month beforehand. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Put together a list of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move. The list should include tasks such as updating your address with the Oregon DMV.

Pack essentials for the first few days, such as medicine, toiletries, and extra clothes.

Finally, make sure to get a full night’s sleep the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. While Full Value Protection is pricier, it gives you more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it provides less coverage. This plan requires your moving company to pay 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 keep the same policy. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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