10 best long-distance moving companies in Downers Grove, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves have their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may encounter higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move your car.

Picking the right moving professionals can help ease your challenges. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home without incident, we've put together this list of the top long-distance movers in Downers Grove.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only assist with local moves. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only work within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to 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 charge by time. However, some companies use a mix of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when moving between states. 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 Downers Grove

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in Downers Grove requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. Below, we provide some advice on how to pick a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Downers Grove.

• 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. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, look into the options provided by your mover. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. 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. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start seeking out estimates several months ahead of your move. Get in touch with multiple long-distance moving providers in Downers Grove and get detailed cost breakdowns. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing plans. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the expenses. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several options to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what other clients thought about certain long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be difficult and costlier to book a mover. Since Downers Grove is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• 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 before the move. Avoid movers that have a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Scheduling your moving company far enough ahead of time is key when preparing for a long-distance move. We recommend scheduling your move at least 90 days in advance, or possibly earlier if you need specific 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 valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of all the necessary tasks 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 toiletries.

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable items (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. While Full Value Protection is more expensive, it provides greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it gives less protection. This option requires your moving company to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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