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

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

Picking the right movers can help alleviate your issues. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Machesney Park to help you, your family, and your belongings get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in many ways. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only work within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. Some movers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to set their rates, so it's key to check your provider's pricing structure.

Local Machesney Park movers may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance moving companies 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 Machesney Park

Picking the right long-distance moving company in Machesney Park requires research to make sure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. Below, we offer some guidance on how to find a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Machesney Park.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, look into the options provided by your mover. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. You can find more detailed information about 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 an assurance that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers give clients 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 request itemized cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Machesney Park. As you compare quotes, confirm 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, plenty of moving companies offer financing options. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple loans to make sure you choose the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others say about particular long-distance movers. Friends and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be difficult and more expensive to book a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in Machesney Park, the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Additionally, reputable moving companies shouldn’t demand the full payment before the move. Avoid movers with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Securing your moving company far enough ahead of time is extremely important for a successful long-distance move. It's best if you schedule your move at least 90 days in advance. This gives you enough time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we advise getting started a month ahead of time. You might choose to keep certain sentimental, valuable, or fragile items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

It's also important to make a checklist of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Illinois DMV.

Pack essentials for the first few days, such as medications, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and extra clothes.

Lastly, make sure to get a full night’s sleep the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get better coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it has reduced coverage. This option requires your movers 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 cover some of 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