10 best long-distance moving companies in Joliet, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves include unique challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues like how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

The right moving company can help put your mind at ease. That’s why we’ve compiled this overview of the best long-distance movers in Joliet to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings get safely to your new home.

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 consider. Local movers often only work within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers often charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers often set fees based on the length of time needed for your move. Keep in mind that some moving companies might use both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when it comes to moving from one state to another. Long-distance movers 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 Joliet

When you're choosing a long-distance mover, the wide variety of options can feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of finding a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Joliet, we've gathered some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, inquiring about these or similar insurance options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance options provided by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to supply a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Joliet several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Ensure these estimates include 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, many moving companies have financing plans. A moving or relocation loan can help with cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare a few options to make sure you find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what previous clients thought about certain long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Neighbors and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• 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 more expensive to get a mover. Joliet also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Additionally, reliable moving companies shouldn’t ask for the full payment upfront. If a mover has a long history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Hiring your movers well before your move date is critical when getting ready for a long-distance move. It's best if you book your move at least 90 days ahead of time. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we recommend starting a month beforehand. You probably have valuable, sentimental, or fragile belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, write a detailed list of all the necessary tasks before and after your move, such as notifying the Illinois DMV of your new address.

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

The night before moving day, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but provides better coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it provides less protection. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy after you move. It may be helpful to review your policy, 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