10 best long-distance moving companies in Fremont, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves include unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about challenges like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

The right moving professionals can help alleviate your issues. We've put together this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Fremont so you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only do local moves. Local moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a significant fee to do so.

Local moving companies are also more likely to charge based on time, while long-distance movers more likely to set fees based on the weight. Keep in mind that some moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Local Fremont movers may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance movers can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Fremont

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options may feel overwhelming, making it challenging to hire the right one for your move. Here are some tips for finding a reliable long-distance mover in Fremont.

• 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. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, ask about the insurance options provided by your mover. We also suggest obtaining your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to supply a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We advise asking for quotes several months ahead of your move. Get itemized cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Fremont. Ensure these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing options to help you afford your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good option to help pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple choices to make sure you select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others have said about specific long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and relatives.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be difficult and more expensive to book a moving company. Fremont also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Additionally, reputable movers shouldn’t request the full payment before the move. Avoid movers that have an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

An important tip for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough in advance. To ensure a stress-free move, hire your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. When it comes to sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Making 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 a bag of essentials for the first few days, such as toothbrushes, medications, and extra clothes.

Lastly, make sure to get a full night’s sleep the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves because it'll pay you back if any of your belongings 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 replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less coverage. If you choose this plan, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. 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