10 best long-distance moving companies in Salem, OR

Long-distance or interstate moves have their own challenges that set them apart from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move your car.

Lessen your worries by picking the right moving professionals for the job. We've put together this list of the top long-distance movers in Salem so you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only assist with local moves. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only work within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies are more likely to charge based on how long a job takes. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might use both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

When faced with a long-distance 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 less expensive rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves is indispensable. Hiring a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Salem

Picking the right long-distance moving company in Salem 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 mover in Salem.

• 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. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, inquire about the insurance options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance coverage carried by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your possessions. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers supply customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Salem several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many 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 good option to help pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We suggest looking into several options to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what previous customers have said about particular long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Also, get recommendations from your friends and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be difficult and costlier to hire a moving company. Salem also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you suspicious. Reputable movers generally won't request your complete payment before the move. Steer clear of movers with a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to hire your moving company well in advance of your move date. To ensure a stress-free move, secure your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and possibly even more if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might prefer to keep certain valuable, fragile, or sentimental possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

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

Pack essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, extra clothes, and medications.

The night before your big move, remember to get a good night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves because it'll cover the cost if any of your belongings are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers 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 belongings (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. While Full Value Protection is more expensive, it provides more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it gives less coverage. With this plan, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged items.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy when you move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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