10 best long-distance moving companies in Maywood, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves include unique challenges that distinguish them from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Hiring the right movers can help lessen your issues. That’s why we’ve made this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Maywood to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions arrive 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 some key differences to keep in mind. Local movers only offer services within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to such jobs at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local moving companies more often set fees based on how long a job takes. However, some companies use a mix of time and weight to calculate their rates, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when moving between states. 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 Maywood

Selecting the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices may feel overwhelming. Below, we have compiled some tips on how to choose a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Maywood.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or similar options. To better protect your possessions during the move, we recommend getting your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to provide a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Maywood several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help cover expenses. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare a few choices to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others have said about specific long-distance moving companies. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be challenging and costlier to hire a mover. Since Maywood is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you wary. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your full payment before the move. Steer clear of movers that have an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key piece of advice for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough ahead of time. We recommend scheduling your move at least three months ahead of time, or even earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. 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 in the moving truck.

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

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

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection costs more, it offers more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it has less coverage. This plan requires your moving company to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings lost or damaged during the move.

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