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

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in a variety of ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues such as how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

The right moving company can help relieve your challenges. That’s why we’ve put together this overview of the top long-distance movers in Elk Grove to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are several key differences to note. Local moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

Local moving companies are also more likely to charge based on how long a job takes, while long-distance movers more likely to set fees based on the weight. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Local Elk Grove moving companies are typically more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when moving between states. Using a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Elk Grove

Finding the right long-distance moving company in Elk Grove requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. Below, we offer some recommendations on how to find a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Elk Grove.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of 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 look into these or similar insurance options. We also suggest getting your own moving insurance to better protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers supply clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Start getting estimates several months before your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to request itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Elk Grove. Ensure these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few choices to make sure you find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about particular long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. You should also ask friends and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to book and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Since Elk Grove is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Trustworthy moving companies generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies with a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A good piece of advice for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough in advance. To ensure a stress-free move, find your movers no less than 90 days ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. When it comes to valuable, sentimental, or fragile belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Putting together a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done 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 toiletries, medications, and extra clothes.

Finally, on the night before moving day, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

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

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. It may be helpful to review your policy, 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