10 best long-distance moving companies in Calumet City, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in significant ways. When you're moving between states, you may be dealing with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move your car.

The right moving professionals can help alleviate your concerns. That’s why we’ve created this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Calumet City to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions get 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 a few key differences to note. Local movers typically only operate within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies more often charge based on how long a job takes. Some movers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to set their rates, so it's key to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when moving from one state to another. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Calumet City

Finding the right long-distance mover in Calumet City requires research to make sure the company meets your needs and fits your budget. Here are some tips for choosing a legitimate, reliable long-distance mover in Calumet City.

• 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. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or similar options. In addition to the insurance coverage carried by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance options in more detail 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 qualified mover is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in Calumet City several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can with expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several loans to make sure you get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about certain long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Since Calumet City is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the semesters 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 prices. Additionally, reliable moving companies shouldn’t request the full payment upfront. If a mover has a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Scheduling your moving company far enough ahead of time is critical when preparing for a long-distance move. We advise hiring movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. When it comes to sentimental, valuable, or fragile items, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

We also recommend making a checklist of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Illinois DMV.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a suitcase with items such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, medicine, and extra clothes.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll reimburse you if any of your possessions are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you better coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it gives you less protection. If you choose this option, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are damaged or lost.

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