10 best long-distance moving companies in Norwood Park, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves have their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against challenges like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Put your mind at ease by hiring the best movers for the job. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've compiled this list of the top long-distance movers in Norwood Park.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in several ways. Local moving companies generally offer moving services within a designated geographic radius. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

Local moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight. Keep in mind that certain movers might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific location and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves is indispensable. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Norwood Park

Finding the right long-distance moving company in Norwood Park requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. Here are some tips for finding a legitimate long-distance moving company in Norwood Park.

• 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. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance options offered by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your belongings. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in Norwood Park several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Confirm that these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing options to help you afford your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare several loans to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about certain long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. You should also ask friends and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be difficult and costlier to book a mover. Since Norwood Park is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Reliable moving companies generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment before the move. If a mover has a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable piece of advice for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough ahead of time. We advise scheduling movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

We also advise making a checklist of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Illinois DMV.

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

The night before your big move, remember to get a full night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection is pricier, it offers better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less coverage. This insurance requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items lost or damaged during the move.

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 typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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