10 best long-distance moving companies in Collinsville, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves include their own challenges that set them apart from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns such as how to move your car.

The right moving professionals can help relieve your worries. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings make it to your new home without incident, we've put together this guide to the top long-distance movers in Collinsville.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only assist with local moves. Local movers usually only operate within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies usually charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers typically charge based on the time needed for your move. Some moving companies, however, may use a combination of time and weight to determine their prices, so it's necessary to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Local Collinsville moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Collinsville

Choosing the right long-distance mover in Collinsville requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. Below, we offer some tips on how to pick a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Collinsville.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can inquire about these or similar options. In addition to the insurance options provided by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a qualified mover. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers provide a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start seeking out quotes several months before your move. Get in touch with several long-distance moving providers in Collinsville and request itemized quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies offer financing options. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several loans allows you to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others think about specific long-distance movers. Friends and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be difficult and more expensive to book a mover. Collinsville also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies that have a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Hiring your movers far enough in advance is key for a successful long-distance move. We advise scheduling your move at least three months in advance, or even earlier if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we advise starting a month in advance. You probably have sentimental, fragile, or valuable belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, prepare a detailed list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as notifying the Illinois DMV of your new address.

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

The night before moving day, remember to get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. While Full Value Protection costs more, it provides more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it has less protection. With this option, your moving company will reimburse 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 typically 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