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

There are factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the right moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Loves Park to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in many ways. Local movers usually only offer services within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to charge based on time. Some movers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to calculate their rates, so it's key to check your provider's pricing structure.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer less expensive rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves is indispensable. Long-distance moving 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 headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Loves Park

Selecting the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options may feel overwhelming. See the list below for some tips on choosing a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Loves Park.

• 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 clients: 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 insurance options. To fully protect your possessions during the move, we recommend getting personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to provide a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start collecting estimates several months ahead of your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to ask for itemized quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Loves Park. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can help with expenses. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple options to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what others say about specific long-distance moving companies. Friends and family 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 to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to book a moving company. Loves Park also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your full payment upfront. If a moving company has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to schedule your moving company well before of your move date. We suggest scheduling your move at least 90 days beforehand, or even earlier if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. You probably have fragile, sentimental, or valuable belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Create a list of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move. The list should include things such as updating your address with the Illinois DMV.

Pack essentials for the first few days, such as extra clothes, medications, and toothbrushes.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll cover the cost if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. While Full Value Protection is more expensive, it offers more coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it has less protection. With this option, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy after you move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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