10 best long-distance moving companies in Lemont, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in severalsignificant ways. When you're moving long-distance, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move your car.

The right movers can help put your mind at ease. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the top long-distance movers in Lemont to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in several ways. Local movers typically only work within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

Local movers are also more likely to charge based on how long a job takes, while long-distance movers more likely to set fees based on the weight. Keep in mind that certain movers might use both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Local Lemont moving companies are typically more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when moving between states. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Lemont

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options can be overwhelming, making it challenging to select the right one for your needs. Here are some tips for picking a trustworthy long-distance moving company in Lemont.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves inside one state. In addition to the insurance coverage offered by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to supply clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: We suggest seeking out quotes several months ahead of your move. Request detailed cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Lemont. Confirm that these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing plans to help you afford your move. 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 expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several choices allows you to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what others have said about particular long-distance moving companies. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and loved ones.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and costlier to get a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Lemont, June and August 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. Trustworthy movers generally won't ask for your complete payment upfront. If a mover has a long history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

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

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. 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, make a detailed list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as notifying the Illinois DMV of your new address.

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

Finally, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers need to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. 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. Full Value Protection is pricier but provides better coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it provides reduced coverage. If you choose this insurance, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy when you 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