10 best long-distance moving companies in Medford, OR

There are a range of importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may be dealing with higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move your car.

Choosing the right movers can help relieve your worries. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings make it to your new home without incident, we've compiled this guide to the best long-distance movers in Medford.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in a few ways. Local movers usually only offer services within a certain geographic area. They'll usually charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that radius 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 items, while local moving companies usually set fees based on the time required for your move. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when establishing their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific city and potentially offer less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in tackling 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 right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Medford

Hiring the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options can feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for finding a legitimate long-distance moving company in Medford.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can ask about these or similar options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed overview 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 enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start collecting estimates several months ahead of your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to ask for itemized cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Medford. Make sure these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options 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 option to help with cost. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several loans allows you to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others have said about specific long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and relatives.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to get and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you suspicious. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your entire payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies that have an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Finding your moving company well before your move date is extremely important when getting ready for a long-distance move. To ensure a stress-free move, book your movers no less than three months before your move date, and potentially even more if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. You might prefer to keep certain possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than 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 essentials for the first few days, such as extra clothes, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and medicine.

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll reimburse you if any of your belongings are lost or damagedin the move.

All interstate movers must offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it gives you reduced coverage. If you choose this insurance, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are damaged or lost.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. While this usually 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