10 best long-distance moving companies in Homer Glen, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in important ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the best movers for the job. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home without incident, we've created this list of the best long-distance movers in Homer Glen.

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 keep in mind. Local moving companies only work within a specific geographic radius and often charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such requests at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers usually set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies often charge based on the length of time required for your move. Certain moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when establishing their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Local Homer Glen movers 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 moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Homer Glen

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the choices can feel overwhelming, making it difficult to hire the right one for you. To help you navigate the process of finding a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Homer Glen, we've collected some advice below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to better protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers provide customers with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have adequate time to plan your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to get itemized quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Homer Glen. As you compare estimates, ensure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies offer financing plans. A moving or relocation loan can help cover cost. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. We recommend looking into several choices to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what others say about specific long-distance moving companies. You should also ask friends and family for recommendations.
• 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 hire a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in Homer Glen, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that give you “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding prices. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your entire payment upfront. If a moving company has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough in advance. To ensure a smooth move, schedule your movers no less than three months before your move date, and potentially even more if you need more unique services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we suggest starting a month beforehand. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

It's also important to make 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.

Put together essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as extra clothes, medicine, and toothbrushes.

The night before your big move, remember to get a full night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll reimburse you if any of your possessions are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain belongings that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it has less coverage. This option requires your moving company to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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