10 best long-distance moving companies in O'Fallon, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in important ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by hiring the best moving professionals for the job. We've made this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in O'Fallon so you, your family, and your possessions get to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only do local moves. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only offer services within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies commonly set fees based on the weight of your items, while local movers commonly set fees based on the length of time required for your move. Some moving providers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to calculate their final cost, so it's necessary to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

When faced with a long-distance 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 less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves is invaluable. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in O'Fallon

Finding the right long-distance mover in O'Fallon requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and fits your budget. Here are some tips for choosing a trustworthy long-distance moving company in O'Fallon.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can inquire about these or other insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to fully protect your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance options in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start requesting quotes several months before your move. Get itemized cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in O'Fallon. As you compare estimates, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong option to help with cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several loans allows you to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what others say about specific long-distance movers. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. O'Fallon also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy because of 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. Avoid moving companies that have a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to find your moving company well in advance of your move date. To ensure a smooth move, reserve your movers no less than three months before your move date, and possibly even more if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. When it comes to fragile, valuable, or sentimental items, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Write a list of everything that needs to be done 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 putting together a bag with items such as extra clothes, medications, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

The night before moving day, remember to get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll give you money back if any of your possessions are lost or damagedby your movers.

All interstate movers have to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain belongings that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it provides less protection. This insurance requires your moving company to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items damaged or lost during the move.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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