10 best long-distance moving companies in Antioch, IL

There are many importantfactors that differentiate 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.

Picking the right movers can help alleviate your issues. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive at your new home without incident, we've compiled this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Antioch.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are different in many ways. Local movers usually only offer services within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to set fees based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies are more likely to charge by time. 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 moving companies. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific city and potentially offer more affordable rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves is indispensable. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Antioch

When you're picking a long-distance moving company, the wide range of choices can be overwhelming. Here are some tips for finding a trustworthy long-distance mover in Antioch.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide 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 recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers supply customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Start requesting estimates several months ahead of your move. Request detailed quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Antioch. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing plans. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help with cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several options allows you to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what previous customers have said about certain long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be challenging and more expensive to get a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in Antioch, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Additionally, legitimate movers shouldn’t request the full payment upfront. 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 key piece of advice for long-distance moves is to book your movers far enough in advance. We suggest planning your move at least 90 days in advance, or even earlier if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we suggest getting started a month ahead of time. When it comes to fragile, sentimental, or valuable belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

We also suggest making a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Illinois DMV.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by putting together a suitcase with items such as toiletries, extra clothes, and medicine.

The night before your big move, remember to get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers are required to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain items that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. While Full Value Protection is more expensive, it offers greater coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it has reduced coverage. This insurance requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy after you move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

Illinois Office of the Secretary of State U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration