10 best long-distance moving companies in Morton Grove, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in a variety of ways. When you're moving between states, you may encounter higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by hiring the best moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve made this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Morton Grove to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it 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 a few key differences to be aware of. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies often set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers often charge based on the length of time required for your move. Some movers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to calculate their prices, so it's important to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Local Morton Grove moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. 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 Morton Grove

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the choices may be overwhelming, making it challenging to pick the right one for your needs. Below, we provide some guidance on how to find a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Morton Grove.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or other options. To better protect your belongings during the move, we recommend purchasing your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. We discuss long-distance moving insurance plans in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Morton Grove several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing plans to help you afford your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple choices to make sure you select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what other 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 neighbors and relatives.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to get and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months. Morton Grove also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Legitimate moving companies generally won't request your complete payment before the move. If a mover has a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Finding your movers far enough in advance is critical for a successful long-distance move. It's best if you plan your move at least three months beforehand. This gives you enough time to hire a moving company. 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 by yourself. You probably have valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Making a checklist of all the things that need to be done 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 toiletries, extra clothes, and medicine.

Finally, make sure to get enough rest the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items 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. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it gives you reduced coverage. With this plan, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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