10 best long-distance moving companies in Elmhurst, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in several ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Hiring the right movers can help relieve your concerns. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Elmhurst to help you, your loved ones, 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 only work within a specific geographic area and frequently charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to such jobs at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies commonly set fees based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies usually set fees based on the time needed for your move. However, some companies use a combination of time and weight to calculate their prices, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

Local Elmhurst moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Hiring a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Elmhurst

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in Elmhurst requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. Below, we offer some advice on how to choose a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Elmhurst.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves within the same state, asking about these or similar insurance options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance choices offered by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance coverage in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers supply customers with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Elmhurst several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Ensure these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing plans. 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. We advise looking into several choices to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what others think about particular long-distance moving companies. Friends and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Elmhurst also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you suspicious. Additionally, reliable moving companies won't request the full payment upfront. If a mover has a long history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Securing your movers well before your move date is key when preparing for a long-distance move. It's best if you plan your move at least 90 days ahead of time. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

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

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

Pack a suitcase with necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as medicine, toiletries, and extra clothes.

The night before your big move, don't forget to get a full night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if some of your items are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers have to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable items (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. Although Full Value Protection is pricier, it gives you more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it provides reduced coverage. This plan requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items 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 during your move. This usually 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