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

There are importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move your car.

Picking the right movers can help alleviate your challenges. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings reach your new home safely, we've compiled this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Melrose Park.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are many key differences to be aware of. Local moving companies only offer services within a specific geographic area and frequently charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to such requests at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers more often set fees based on time. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when it comes to moving between states. Using a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Melrose Park

Choosing the right long-distance mover in Melrose Park requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. Here are some tips for choosing a trustworthy long-distance moving company in Melrose Park.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to fully protect your possessions. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Start getting quotes several months ahead of your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to request itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Melrose Park. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. 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 help with your move. Looking into several choices allows you to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others have said about specific long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Since Melrose Park is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you suspicious. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your entire payment upfront. If a mover has a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to book your moving company well before of your move date. It's best if you plan your move at least 90 days ahead of time. This gives you plenty of 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.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

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

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a bag with items such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, extra clothes, and medicine.

The night before your big move, remember to get a good night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is a necessity because it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers need to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide money back for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable possessions (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. Full Value Protection costs more but includes more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it provides less coverage. This plan requires your moving company to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items lost or damaged during the move.

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

Sources

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