10 best long-distance moving companies in Belvidere, IL

There are several importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns like how to move your car.

The right moving professionals can help put your mind at ease. That’s why we’ve compiled this overview of the top long-distance movers in Belvidere to help you, your family, and your possessions make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are several key differences to note. Local movers typically only work within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to charge by time. Some moving companies, however, may use a combination of time and weight to determine their rates, so it's important to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific location and potentially offer more affordable rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Belvidere

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices may be overwhelming, making it challenging to select the right one for your move. Below, we provide some tips on how to pick a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Belvidere.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. In addition to the insurance coverage provided by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to provide a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Belvidere several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing plans. A moving or relocation loan can with expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple choices to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about specific long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and costlier to hire a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in Belvidere, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that give you “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding estimates. Additionally, reliable movers shouldn’t ask for the full payment upfront. If a mover has a long history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable piece of advice for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough ahead of time. We advise booking movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need specialized moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You might prefer to keep certain possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Write a list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move. The list should include things such as updating your address with the Illinois DMV.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days of your move, such as extra clothes, toothbrushes, and medications.

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some movers might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but includes more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less coverage. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are lost or damaged.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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