10 best long-distance moving companies in Maine, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in several ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against challenges like how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Picking the right movers can help lessen your challenges. That’s why we’ve created this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Maine to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only offer local moves. Local movers only offer services within a specific geographic area and often charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such requests at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to charge based on how long a job takes. Keep in mind that certain movers might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific city and potentially offer less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Maine

Picking the right long-distance mover in Maine requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. Here are some tips for finding a reliable long-distance moving company in Maine.

• 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. For long-distance moves inside one state, inquiring about these or other insurance options is a good idea. To completely protect your possessions during the move, we suggest getting your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers provide clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Maine several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Ensure these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing plans to help you pay for your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good option to help with expenses. Ask 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 lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what previous clients have said about particular long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be difficult and more expensive to hire a moving company. Maine 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: Be cautious of movers that give you “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding estimates. Reputable moving companies generally won't demand your complete payment upfront. If a moving company has a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

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

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You probably have sentimental, valuable, or fragile belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than in the moving truck.

To stay organized, write 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.

Pack a bag with necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as medications, extra clothes, and toothbrushes.

The night before your move, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if some of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide money back for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but offers more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less protection. If you choose this plan, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are lost or damaged.

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. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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