10 best long-distance moving companies in Carpentersville, IL

There are a range of factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by choosing the right movers for the job. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best long-distance movers in Carpentersville to help you, your family, and your possessions make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in several ways. Local moving companies only operate within a specific geographic area and frequently charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to these jobs at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies often charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers typically charge based on the time required for your move. However, some companies use a mix of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

Local Carpentersville moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Using a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Carpentersville

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options may feel overwhelming, making it challenging to hire the right one for your move. See the list below for some advice on picking a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Carpentersville.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, look into the options provided by your mover. To fully protect your possessions during the move, we suggest purchasing personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Carpentersville several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, ensure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies offer financing plans. A moving or relocation loan can cover expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several options allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what other customers say about specific long-distance moving companies. You should also ask friends and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Since Carpentersville 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: Moving companies that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you wary. Additionally, trustworthy moving companies won't ask for the full payment before the move. If a moving company has an extensive 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

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

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we advise starting a month ahead of time. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

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

Put together a suitcase with essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as extra clothes, medicine, and toiletries.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is vital, as it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but includes greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it has less protection. With this plan, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. 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