10 best long-distance moving companies in Arlington Heights, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in severalimportant ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with challenges like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Choosing the right moving professionals can help lessen your concerns. We've compiled this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Arlington Heights so you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only assist with local moves. Local movers only work within a specific geographic radius and usually charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to these jobs at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers usually set fees based on the weight of your items, while local movers commonly set fees based on the length of time needed for your move. However, some movers use a mix of time and weight to calculate their rates, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

When faced with an interstate 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 more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves is invaluable. Long-distance movers 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 Arlington Heights

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options can be overwhelming, making it challenging to choose the right one for you. See the list below for some guidance on choosing a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Arlington Heights.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of insurance coverage to their clients: 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. We also suggest obtaining your own moving insurance to fully protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers supply clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Arlington Heights several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies have financing options. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong choice to help with cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several loans allows you to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others say about certain long-distance movers. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be challenging and more expensive to book a moving company. Arlington Heights 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: Movers that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you suspicious. Legitimate moving companies generally shouldn't demand your complete payment before the move. Avoid movers that have an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your movers well before your move date is critical for a successful long-distance move. We recommend scheduling movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we suggest getting started a month in advance. You probably have fragile, sentimental, or valuable belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Putting together a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Illinois DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Pack essentials for the first few days, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, medications, and extra clothes.

Lastly, make sure to get a full night’s sleep the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is a necessity, 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 are required to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. While Full Value Protection is pricier, it gives you greater coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it has less protection. With this plan, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged belongings.

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

Sources

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