10 best long-distance moving companies in Cunningham, IL

There are a variety of factors that differentiate 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 like how to move your car.

Selecting the right moving professionals can help relieve your challenges. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the top long-distance movers in Cunningham to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are distinct in many ways. Local moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

Local moving companies are also more likely to charge based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when calculating their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, especially when it comes to moving between states. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress 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 Cunningham

When you're picking a long-distance moving company, the wide range of options may be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of finding a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Cunningham, we've compiled some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their customers: 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. We also suggest obtaining your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a qualified mover. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Cunningham several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Confirm that these quotes include 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 plans. A moving or relocation loan can cover cost. 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 select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others think about particular long-distance moving companies. You should also ask friends and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and more expensive to get a mover. Since Cunningham is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you wary. Reliable moving companies generally won't demand your complete payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies that have an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to secure your moving company well before of your move date. We recommend scheduling your move at least three months beforehand, or possibly earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You probably have sentimental, valuable, or fragile items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than in the moving truck.

It's also a good idea to make a checklist of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Illinois DMV.

Put together a bag with essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, 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 vital since it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but provides more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it gives less protection. This insurance requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items lost or damaged during the move.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. 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