10 best long-distance moving companies in Bloomington, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves include unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues like how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

The right moving professionals can help put your mind at ease. We've created this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Bloomington so you, your loved ones, and your possessions get to your new home safely.

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 consider. Local movers only work within a specific geographic radius and often charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such jobs at all.

Local movers are also more likely to charge based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight. Some moving companies, however, may use a mix of time and weight to calculate their prices, so it's important to check your provider's pricing structure.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when moving between states. 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 Bloomington

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the choices can feel overwhelming, making it difficult to choose the right one for your move. See the list below for some recommendations on picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Bloomington.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, ask about the options provided by your mover. To better protect your belongings during the move, we suggest getting your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Bloomington several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Estimates 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: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can help with cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise looking into several choices to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what other customers say about certain long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Trustworthy movers generally shouldn't request your complete payment before the move. If a mover has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to book your moving company well before of your move date. To ensure a stress-free move, reserve your movers no less than three months before your move date, and possibly even more if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You might prefer to keep certain possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Creating a checklist of all the things that need to be done 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.

Put together necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, medicine, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

The night before moving day, remember to get a full night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll give you money back if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable items (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it provides less protection. If you choose this plan, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover 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