10 best long-distance moving companies in Glenview, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in many ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with concerns such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Put your mind at ease by choosing the best movers for the job. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive at your new home safely, we've compiled this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Glenview.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are many key differences to be aware of. Local moving companies generally offer moving services within a designated geographic area. 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 set fees based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight. However, some providers use a combination of time and weight to calculate their prices, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Glenview

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in Glenview requires research to make sure 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 mover in Glenview.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two kinds of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can ask about these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves within the same state. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Glenview several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies have financing plans. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good strategy to help cover cost. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several loans to make sure you select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what other clients think about specific long-distance movers. Also, get recommendations from your friends and relatives.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to get a moving company. Glenview also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you suspicious. Additionally, reliable moving companies shouldn’t request the full payment before the move. If a mover has a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable piece of advice for long-distance moves is to secure your movers far enough ahead of time. We recommend booking movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need more specialized moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we recommend starting a month ahead of time. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

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

Pack essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, extra clothes, and medicine.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers are required to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain items that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you better coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it provides less protection. If you choose this insurance, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are damaged or lost.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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