10 best long-distance moving companies in Oak Forest, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in severalsignificant ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the right movers for the job. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive at your new home without incident, we've created this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Oak Forest.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in many ways. Local moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a significant fee to do so.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies often charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies typically set fees based on the time needed for your move. Keep in mind that some moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your specific 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. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific city and potentially offer less expensive rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves is indispensable. Long-distance movers 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 Oak Forest

Choosing the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices can feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Oak Forest, we've gathered some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other insurance options for long-distance moves within the same state. To better protect your possessions during the move, we recommend getting your own moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. 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 be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have plenty of time to plan your move. Contact several long-distance moving providers in Oak Forest and request detailed cost breakdowns. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several loans allows you to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what previous clients say about particular long-distance moving companies. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be difficult and costlier to get a mover. Oak Forest also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Trustworthy moving companies generally won't ask for your complete payment before the move. If a moving company has a history of negative 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

Hiring your movers far enough ahead of time is key for a successful long-distance move. We suggest booking your move at least three months beforehand, or even earlier if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You might choose to keep certain valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

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

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days, such as toiletries, medicine, and extra clothes.

Finally, on the night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves because it'll pay you back if any of your belongings are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable items (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less protection. If you choose this plan, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are lost or damaged.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may cover some of your belongings during your 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