10 best long-distance moving companies in Hanover Park, IL

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

Choosing the right movers can help ease your issues. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings get to your new home safely, we've created this overview of the top long-distance movers in Hanover Park.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are a few key differences to be aware of. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only operate within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers commonly charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers usually charge based on the time required for your move. Keep in mind that some movers might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

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

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Hanover Park

Picking the right long-distance moving company in Hanover Park requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. To help you navigate the process of choosing a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Hanover Park, we've compiled some recommendations below.

• 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. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. To completely protect your belongings during the move, we recommend getting personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to supply a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Hanover Park several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, ensure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing plans to help you afford your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several options to make sure you get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what others say about specific long-distance movers. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and more expensive to get a moving company. Hanover Park 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: Moving companies that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you suspicious. Additionally, trustworthy movers won't request the full payment before the move. Avoid moving companies that have an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

An important piece of advice for long-distance moves is to book your movers far enough in advance. It's best if you schedule your move at least three months in advance. This gives you plenty of time to hire a moving company. 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 by yourself. When it comes to valuable, fragile, or sentimental belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

It's also a good idea to make a checklist of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Illinois DMV.

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

Finally, on the night before moving day, make sure you 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 belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but provides better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less protection. With this insurance, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items.

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