10 best long-distance moving companies in New Lenox, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in important ways. When you're moving long-distance, you may come up against higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move your car.

The right moving company can help alleviate your concerns. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've created this overview of the top long-distance movers in New Lenox.

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 note. Local movers only work within a specific geographic radius and frequently charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to these jobs at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies typically set fees based on the weight of your items, while local movers usually set fees based on the length of time needed for your move. However, some providers use a combination of time and weight to set their prices, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. 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 taking on interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in New Lenox

Picking the right long-distance mover in New Lenox requires research to make sure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. To help you navigate the process of choosing a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in New Lenox, we've collected some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, look into the options provided by your mover. To fully protect your possessions during the move, we suggest getting your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers provide a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in New Lenox several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies offer financing options. A moving or relocation loan can help with expenses. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several options allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what other clients think about particular long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. New Lenox also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you cautious. Additionally, trustworthy moving companies shouldn’t ask for the full payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies that have an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Securing your movers far enough ahead of time is critical for a successful long-distance move. To ensure an easy 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.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You might prefer to keep certain possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Write a list of all the tasks that need 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 suitcase with items such as medicine, toothbrushes, and extra clothes.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if some of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers have to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less coverage. With this option, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. 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