10 best long-distance moving companies in Berwyn, IL

There are many factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges like how to move your car.

Alleviate your worries by choosing the right moving professionals for the job. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home safely, we've created this overview of the top long-distance movers in Berwyn.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

Local moving companies are also more likely to charge based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight. However, some providers use a combination of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when it comes to moving between states. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the right 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 Berwyn

Picking the right long-distance mover in Berwyn requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. Below, we provide some tips on how to pick a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Berwyn.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can inquire about these or other insurance options. In addition to the insurance coverage offered by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start getting quotes several months before your move. Ask for detailed quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Berwyn. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies have financing options. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We advise looking into several loans to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what others have said about certain long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means movers may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Berwyn also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you wary. Additionally, reputable moving companies shouldn’t demand the full payment upfront. If a moving company has an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key piece of advice for long-distance moves is to secure your movers far enough in advance. It's best if you plan your move at least three months in advance. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we suggest getting started a month beforehand. When it comes to fragile, sentimental, or valuable items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

To stay organized, write a detailed list of all the necessary tasks both before and after your move, such as notifying the Illinois DMV of your new address.

Pack a bag with necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as medications, extra clothes, and toiletries.

The night before your move, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you better coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it provides reduced coverage. This plan requires your moving company to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy after you move. This usually 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