10 best long-distance moving companies in Darien, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in many ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with challenges such as how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Lessen your issues by hiring the best movers for the job. We've compiled this overview of the top long-distance movers in Darien so you, your family, and your possessions arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only offer local moves. Local movers only offer services within a specific geographic area and frequently charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to these jobs at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on time. However, some providers use a combination of time and weight to calculate their rates, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

Local Darien movers 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 movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Darien

Picking the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices may feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for finding a reliable long-distance moving company in Darien.

• 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 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 insurance options. In addition to the insurance options provided by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers supply a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Darien several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Make sure these estimates 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, plenty of moving companies offer financing plans. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help with expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple options to make sure you choose the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about specific long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. You should also ask neighbors 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 costlier to hire a mover. Darien also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the school year 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. Trustworthy movers generally won't demand your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of movers with a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to secure your moving company well in advance of your move date. We suggest scheduling movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You probably have valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

We also recommend making a checklist of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Illinois DMV.

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

The night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items 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. While Full Value Protection costs more, it offers more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less coverage. If you choose this plan, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are damaged or lost.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. 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