10 best long-distance moving companies in Champaign, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in many ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Selecting the right moving professionals can help relieve your problems. We've created this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Champaign so you, your loved ones, and your possessions make it 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 a few key differences to keep in mind. Local movers only offer services within a specific geographic area and frequently charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to such jobs at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers often charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies commonly set fees based on the time required for your move. Some movers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to determine their rates, so it's important to check your provider's pricing structure.

Local Champaign moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the proper 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 Champaign

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in Champaign requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and fits your budget. Below, we offer some tips on how to pick a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Champaign.

• 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. You can inquire about these or other insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. In addition to the insurance choices offered by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Champaign several months before your move and get detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can help cover expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several choices allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what previous customers have said about specific long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. You should also ask friends and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to hire and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months. Since Champaign 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 provide “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding quotes. Legitimate movers generally shouldn't request your complete payment before the move. Steer clear of movers with an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

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

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

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

Pack essentials for the first few days of your move, such as extra clothes, toiletries, and medicine.

The night before moving day, don't forget to 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 requires that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Although Full Value Protection is pricier, it offers more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less coverage. With this insurance, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged 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