10 best long-distance moving companies in Normal, IL

There are a variety of factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with concerns such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Picking the right moving professionals can help relieve your problems. That’s why we’ve created this list of the top long-distance movers in Normal to help you, your family, and your belongings get 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 some key differences to keep in mind. Local movers only work within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to these requests at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to charge based on time. Keep in mind that certain movers might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Local Normal movers may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Using a long-distance mover 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 stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Normal

Picking the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options may feel overwhelming. Below, we have compiled some advice on how to find a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Normal.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, asking about these or similar options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance choices offered by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: We advise seeking out quotes several months before your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to ask for itemized quotes from several long-distance movers in Normal. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing plans to help you pay for your move. A moving or relocation loan can help pay for some of the cost. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise looking into several loans to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others thought about certain long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. You should also ask neighbors and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and more expensive to get a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you cautious. Trustworthy movers generally won't ask for your complete payment before the move. Avoid moving companies with an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Securing your movers well before your move date is essential for a successful long-distance move. We advise scheduling your move at least three months beforehand, or even earlier 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 on your own. You probably have valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than in the moving truck.

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

Put together a suitcase with necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as medications, extra clothes, and toothbrushes.

The night before moving day, remember to get a good night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain possessions that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. While Full Value Protection is pricier, it provides more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it provides less protection. This plan requires your moving company to compensate 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. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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