10 best long-distance moving companies in Oswego, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in many ways. When you're moving long-distance, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move your car.

The right movers can help relieve your worries. That’s why we’ve made this list of the leading long-distance movers in Oswego 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 consider. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only operate within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on time. However, some companies use a combination of time and weight to calculate their rates, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

Local Oswego movers may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. These companies are more likely to have the relevant 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 Oswego

When you're picking a long-distance mover, the wide variety of options may be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of choosing a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Oswego, we've put together some advice below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. In addition to the insurance coverage offered by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you complete 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. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Oswego several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Confirm that these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing options to help you afford your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good strategy to help pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several options to make sure you find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what previous clients thought about specific long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. You should also ask neighbors and loved ones 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 to move. This can make it harder and costlier to hire a mover. Since Oswego is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Trustworthy movers generally shouldn't demand your complete payment before the move. If a moving company has an extensive 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

A useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to hire your moving company well in advance of your move date. We suggest scheduling movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You might choose to keep certain sentimental, valuable, or fragile possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

To stay organized, prepare a detailed list of all the necessary tasks before and after your move, such as notifying the Illinois DMV of your new address.

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, toiletries, and medications.

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers are required to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but offers more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it provides less coverage. If you choose this option, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are damaged or lost.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you 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