10 best long-distance moving companies in Milton, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in important ways. When you're moving between states, you may have to deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the best movers for the job. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the top long-distance movers in Milton 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 moving companies are distinct in several ways. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only work within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to charge based on time. However, some providers use a mix of time and weight to calculate their prices, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

Local Milton moving companies are generally more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and experience, especially when moving between states. These 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 Milton

When you're selecting a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of options can feel overwhelming. See the list below for some tips on choosing a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Milton.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance choices provided by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your belongings. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers provide a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We suggest seeking out quotes several months ahead of your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to get detailed quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Milton. Ensure these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good strategy to help cover expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise looking into several loans to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what previous customers have said about certain long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months. Milton also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you suspicious. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your entire payment upfront. If a moving company has a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

An important piece of advice for long-distance moves is to reserve your movers far enough in advance. We suggest booking your move at least 90 days ahead of time, or even earlier if you need 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 might choose to keep certain fragile, valuable, or sentimental items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Creating a checklist of all the things 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.

Pack essentials for the first few days, such as toiletries, extra clothes, and medications.

The night before your big move, don't forget to get a full night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers have to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Although Full Value Protection is more expensive, it provides more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it provides reduced coverage. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are lost or damaged.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. 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