10 best long-distance moving companies in Hanover, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in a variety of ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against challenges like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Hiring the right movers can help ease your issues. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home safely, we've compiled this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Hanover.

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 difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only work 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 usually set fees based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies commonly set fees based on the time required for your move. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Although local movers may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when it comes to moving between states. 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

When you're choosing a long-distance moving company, the wide range of options can feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of finding a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Hanover, we've put together some advice below.

• 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. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or other options. In addition to the insurance options offered by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your possessions. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Hanover several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, ensure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might 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 pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple loans to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what previous customers say about particular long-distance movers. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be challenging and costlier to hire a moving company. Hanover 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 "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Reputable movers generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment upfront. If a moving company has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your moving company far enough in advance is critical for a successful long-distance move. To ensure a smooth move, reserve your movers no less than 90 days before your move date, and potentially even more if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. You might prefer to keep certain possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than 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.

Pack essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as toothbrushes, extra clothes, and medicine.

Lastly, make sure to get a full night’s sleep the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is a necessity because it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection costs more, it gives you greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it has less coverage. If you choose this option, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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