10 best long-distance moving companies in Naperville, IL

There are factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues like how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

The right movers can help alleviate your problems. We've put together this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Naperville so you, your family, and your belongings arrive to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only offer local moves. Local moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to charge based on how long a job takes. Some moving providers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to calculate their rates, so it's important to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

Local Naperville moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Naperville

Picking the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices may feel overwhelming. See the list below for some guidance on choosing a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Naperville.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, inquiring about these or similar insurance options is a good idea. We also suggest obtaining your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. 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. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Naperville several months before your move and ask for 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: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies offer financing options. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several options to make sure you choose the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what other customers say about certain long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your friends and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be difficult and more expensive to get a moving company. Naperville also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that provide “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding estimates. Legitimate movers generally won't demand your complete payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies that have a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Scheduling your movers far enough in advance is key when planning a long-distance move. To ensure a stress-free move, book your movers no less than three months before your move date, and possibly even more if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we advise getting started a month ahead of time. You might choose to keep certain valuable, sentimental, or fragile possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

We also advise making a checklist of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, 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 putting together a suitcase with items such as extra clothes, medicine, and toothbrushes.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves because it'll reimburse you if any of your possessions are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but includes greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it has less coverage. This insurance requires your movers to reimburse 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 carry over the same policy when you move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, 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