The Pacific Northwest has become an extremely popular area for people to move over the past five or six years. With excellent weather, great job opportunities, eclectic cities and picturesque towns, you can enjoy a great life anywhere in Oregon.
An excellent way to experience a comfortable relocation is by hiring reliable cross-country movers. Rather than trying to pack up, load, and transport all your belongings without any professional help, you should hire the very best mover in your area that provides the services you are seeking.
Top movers make relocations so much simpler, as they handle a lot of the work, allowing you to focus on other significant matters during this time.
Handling a relocation to Portland or another city in Oregon, whether from a nearby state or another part of the country, can be challenging. Between packing, saying goodbye to friends and family, and wrapping up other parts of your life in your present city, you may be overwhelmed.
Below is a complete guide that underlines five important things you should know before moving to Oregon.
1. Cost of Living
When moving to Oregon, you must consider the cost of living in the area compared to your present city. Statistics show that Oregon has a cost of living that is around 30 percent higher than the United States average.
Whether you perceive the cost of living as higher will depend on a few factors. The first is your present home. If you are moving from an area such as Boston, San Francisco, Los Angeles, or New York City, your cost of living will be lower in any Oregon city. Those who are moving from more affordable parts of the country may find their cost of living rising.
Another factor in assessing the cost of living in Oregon is your new salary compared to what you previously earned. If you receive a pay raise that is higher than the increase in monthly living expenses, then moving to Oregon is worthwhile.
2. Hiring Reputable Movers
Handling the stresses of moving is a lot easier when you can count on top-rated state-to-state movers to help you. Use a reputable platform to search for movers and connect with them to understand their rates and services.
Do not necessarily choose the cheapest local or long-distance mover for your relocation. What matters more is the reliability of the movers in question. The very best companies offer competitive rates and provide top-tier service.
3. Avoid Moving in the Summer
Most long-distance moving companies are a lot busier during the summer months. If you are planning to relocate to Oregon, try to avoid moving during peak season.
Not only is it more difficult to hire a mover on your ideal moving date, unless you book a slot several months in advance, but relocation companies may charge slightly higher fees for their services during these months.
The winter is the ideal time to move, as relocation specialists are a lot less busy. Spring and fall are the next best options.
4. Make a Checklist
A helpful way to stay on top of all the work that must be done during a relocation is to create a checklist. By writing down every task you must complete, such as forwarding mail, sending your kids’ school records to their new school, and changing your driver’s license, you will not forget anything important.
Having such a list on hand ensures you can calmly get through the coming weeks or months, as you won’t constantly be thinking that you may have forgotten to do something extremely important related to your upcoming move.
5. Settling in Oregon
Settling into your new home in Oregon will be your number one priority as soon as your relocation is complete. Allow the movers to worry about getting your belongings to your house, and focus on familiarizing yourself with your new city.
Drive around your neighborhood before you start at your new job to see where the nearest grocery store, dry cleaners, gym, and other such places are located. Consider visiting a few tourist sites or popular spots among locals to immerse yourself in the Oregon culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the importance of requesting a binding quote from movers?
Requesting a binding quote from moving companies is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure a smooth relocation. If a mover only offers you a non-binding quote, you have no way of knowing if you will be paying the same price on the final bill. Only binding quotes are nonadjustable unless you request specific services after signing the moving agreement.
Should I sell my older belongings before or after I move to Oregon?
You should sell any belongings before the movers arrive at your home. The best time to declutter is when you are moving. Throw away, donate, or sell any appliances, furniture, accessories, or clothes that you are not planning to use in your new home or apartment. You may even save money on the move if you declutter before the movers arrive.
Is it possible to ask the movers to relocate my car to my new city?
Moving companies do not typically relocate cars, as such a service is entirely separate from residential moving. If you are moving to Oregon from very far away, you may not want to drive all the way to your new city. In such a circumstance, you can contact an independent vehicle transportation company for assistance.
Am I allowed to pack firearms and ammunition in the moving truck?
No, firearms and ammunition are expressly forbidden to go on moving trucks, whether you are relocating locally or long-distance. If you are moving locally, you should securely pack up these items in accordance with local laws and transport them in your car. If you are moving across state lines, you may have to request a specialty service.
Is there a special cost if the movers have to haul my furniture and boxes up flights of stairs?
Yes. Some movers will charge stair carry fees based on the number of flights of stairs, others may add extra time to the base cost. Be sure to discuss the number of stairs (or elevator access if available) with prospective movers before receiving a final quote.
Final Thoughts
A gorgeous part of the United States that is rapidly growing in population, Oregon and the rest of the Pacific Northwest is a great place to call home. By taking into account the above five tips from our experts, and by booking a moving slot with the professionals as soon as possible, you can navigate this relocation comfortably.
Moving should be a fun and exciting experience. Do not allow yourself to become overwhelmed by the stresses of packing or driving moving trucks. Hire top-rated movers, relocate within budget, and focus your energy on establishing your new life in Oregon.
