10 best long-distance moving companies in Crete, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in significant ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against challenges like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Put your mind at ease by choosing the best moving professionals for the job. We've created this list of the top long-distance movers in Crete so you, your loved ones, and your possessions get to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ considerably 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 often only offer services within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers commonly set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies commonly charge based on the length of time required for your move. Some moving providers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to calculate their final cost, so it's necessary to check your provider's pricing structure.

Local Crete moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Crete

When you're hiring a long-distance mover, the wide variety of options can be overwhelming. Here are some tips for choosing a legitimate, trustworthy long-distance mover in Crete.

• 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. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, look into the options provided by your mover. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers provide a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Crete several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Confirm that these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing plans to help you afford your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise researching several options to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what previous customers thought about specific long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and relatives.
• 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 mover. Crete also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Additionally, trustworthy moving companies shouldn’t request the full payment upfront. Steer clear of movers with a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key tip for long-distance moves is to reserve your movers far enough in advance. It's best if you book your move at least three months in advance. This gives you plenty of time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. You probably have sentimental, valuable, or fragile items, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Making a checklist of all the things that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Illinois DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

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

The night before moving day, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers must provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection is more expensive, it gives you better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less protection. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are damaged or lost.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may partially cover your belongings 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