10 best long-distance moving companies in Decatur, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in a variety of ways. When you're moving long-distance, you may be dealing with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move your car.

Hiring the right movers can help relieve your concerns. That’s why we’ve created this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Decatur to help you, your family, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to charge based on how long a job takes. Keep in mind that certain movers might incorporate both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Local Decatur moving companies are typically more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress 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 Decatur

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in Decatur requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. See the list below for some advice on finding a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Decatur.

• 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 inside one state, look into the options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance choices offered 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 options, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to provide a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start asking for estimates several months before your move. Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Decatur and get detailed cost breakdowns. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing options to help you afford your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several options allows you to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what previous clients have said about certain long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that provide “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding prices. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your entire payment before the move. If a mover has a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful tip for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough ahead of time. It's best if you plan your move at least three months ahead of time. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You might choose to keep certain sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Create a list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move. The list should include items such as updating your address with the Illinois DMV.

Put together a suitcase with necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as toiletries, medicine, and extra clothes.

The night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll provide reimbursement if any of your possessions are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it has less coverage. With this plan, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

Illinois Office of the Secretary of State U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration