10 best long-distance moving companies in Grafton, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves bring their own challenges that set them apart from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with concerns like how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

The right movers can help relieve your problems. That’s why we’ve put together this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Grafton to help you, your family, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ from those that only offer local moves. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only offer services within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on time. However, some movers use a combination of time and weight to calculate their rates, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

Local Grafton moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Grafton

Finding the right long-distance mover in Grafton requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. Here are some tips for finding a reliable long-distance mover in Grafton.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can inquire about these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves within the same state. In addition to the insurance choices provided by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Grafton several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Ensure these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies offer financing options. 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 cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several options allows you to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others thought about certain long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Since Grafton is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that offer “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding quotes. Legitimate movers generally shouldn't demand your complete payment before the move. Steer clear of movers that have an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A good piece of advice for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough in advance. It's best if you schedule your move at least 90 days in advance. This gives you enough time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You probably have sentimental, fragile, or valuable belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as notifying the Illinois DMV of your new address.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a bag with items such as extra clothes, toothbrushes, and medicine.

Lastly, make sure to get enough rest the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll reimburse you if any of your items are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some movers might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Although Full Value Protection is more expensive, it provides more coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it provides reduced coverage. If you choose this plan, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are lost or damaged.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover 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