10 best long-distance moving companies in Bolingbrook, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves present their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with concerns like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Put your mind at ease by hiring the best moving professionals for the job. We've made this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Bolingbrook so you, your family, and your belongings arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only do local moves. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only operate within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Long-distance movers 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 mix of time and weight to calculate their prices, so it's important to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Local Bolingbrook moving companies are typically more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when moving between states. These companies 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 stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Bolingbrook

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the choices can be overwhelming, making it difficult to select the right one for you. To help you navigate the process of choosing a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Bolingbrook, we've gathered some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage options: 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 recommend getting your own moving insurance to completely protect your belongings. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers supply a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to ask for itemized quotes from several long-distance movers in Bolingbrook. Confirm that these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing plans to help you pay for your move. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple loans to make sure you get 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 previous customers say about certain long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and costlier to book a moving company. Bolingbrook also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that give you “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding quotes. Legitimate moving companies generally shouldn't request your complete payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies with a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice for long-distance moves is to reserve your movers far enough ahead of time. We recommend hiring movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need more 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 choose to keep certain sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Put together a list of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move. The list should include items such as updating your address with the Illinois DMV.

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

Lastly, make sure to get a full night’s sleep the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. Although Full Value Protection costs more, it gives you more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less protection. With this plan, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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