10 best long-distance moving companies in McMinnville, OR

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

Hiring the right moving professionals can help ease your problems. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive at your new home without incident, we've put together this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in McMinnville.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are a few key differences to note. Local moving companies only offer services within a specific geographic area and often charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to such requests at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers commonly 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. Certain moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when establishing their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

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 location and potentially offer less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in McMinnville

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in McMinnville requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. See the list below for some advice on choosing a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in McMinnville.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or other options. In addition to the insurance coverage provided by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in McMinnville several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Confirm that these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing options. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help cover expenses. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend looking into several options to get 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 others say about particular long-distance movers. Also, get 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 to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to get a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Additionally, trustworthy moving companies shouldn’t ask for the full payment upfront. If a moving company has a history of negative 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 helpful tip for long-distance moves is to find your movers far enough in advance. We advise scheduling your move at least three months in advance, or even earlier if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You probably have valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of all the necessary tasks before and after your move, such as notifying the Oregon DMV of your new address.

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

The night before your move, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Although Full Value Protection is pricier, it provides more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it provides less protection. With this insurance, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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