10 best long-distance moving companies in McHenry, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves include unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. 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.

Alleviate your problems by choosing the best movers for the job. We've created this list of the best long-distance movers in McHenry so you, your family, and your possessions get to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ from those that only assist with local moves. Local movers typically only work within a certain geographic radius. They'll usually charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance movers more likely to charge based on the weight. Some movers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to calculate their final cost, so it's key to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. Although 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 tackling interstate moves is indispensable. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in McHenry

Selecting the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices may be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of finding a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in McHenry, we've compiled some recommendations below.

• 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 inquire about these or other insurance options for long-distance moves inside one state. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to completely protect your belongings. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers supply customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Start collecting estimates several months before your move. Contact several long-distance moving providers in McHenry and ask for itemized quotes. Ensure these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong strategy to help cover cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We recommend looking into several loans to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what previous customers have said about particular long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. You should also ask neighbors and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, 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 mover. Since McHenry is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that offer “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding prices. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your full payment before the move. If a moving company has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your movers far enough in advance is extremely important for a successful long-distance move. We advise scheduling your move at least three months in advance, or possibly earlier if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Making a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Illinois DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Put together essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as extra clothes, medications, and toiletries.

The night before your big move, remember to get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll pay you back if any of your items are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable possessions (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. Full Value Protection is pricier but provides more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it gives you less protection. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are lost or damaged.

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