10 best long-distance moving companies in Evanston, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves present their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

The right moving company can help ease your problems. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings make it to your new home safely, we've compiled this overview of the best long-distance movers in Evanston.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies often set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers usually set fees based on the length of time required for your move. Some moving providers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to calculate their prices, so it's key to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

Although local movers may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, especially when it comes to moving from one state to another. Hiring 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 Evanston

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options may be overwhelming, making it difficult to choose the right one for you. Here are some tips for finding a reliable long-distance mover in Evanston.

• 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 customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, looking into these or similar options is a good idea. To completely protect your possessions during the move, we recommend obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers provide customers with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: We recommend looking for quotes several months ahead of your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to ask for itemized quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Evanston. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies have financing options. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several options allows you to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others think about certain long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be challenging and costlier to book a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in Evanston, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that provide “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding prices. Trustworthy movers generally won't ask for your complete payment before the move. If a mover has a long history of negative 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. To ensure a stress-free move, hire your movers no less than three months before your move date, and possibly even more if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Writing a checklist of all the things that need to be done both 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, such as medications, toiletries, and extra clothes.

Finally, make sure to get enough rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is a must for long-distance moves. It'll reimburse you if any of your belongings are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions 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 in the long-run you'll get more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less protection. If you choose this plan, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are lost or damaged.

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

Sources

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