10 best long-distance moving companies in Palatine, IL

There are factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may come up against complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges like how to move your car.

The right moving professionals can help put your mind at ease. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Palatine to help you, your family, and your possessions make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies differ in many ways. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only work within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance movers more likely to set fees based on the weight. Certain moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when calculating their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Local Palatine movers may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Palatine

Picking the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices can be overwhelming. See the list below for some advice on finding a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Palatine.

• 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. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, asking about these or similar options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance coverage carried by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to provide a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. Ask for itemized quotes from several long-distance movers in Palatine. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing plans. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans 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: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what previous clients have said about certain long-distance movers. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be challenging and more expensive to book a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Palatine, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that give you “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding estimates. Additionally, legitimate movers won't ask for the full payment before the move. Steer clear of movers that have an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice for long-distance moves is to book your movers far enough ahead of time. We recommend 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.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. You probably have sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Making a checklist of all the things that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Illinois DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Put together essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as extra clothes, medications, and toiletries.

The night before moving day, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers need to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it gives you less protection. This insurance requires your moving company to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings damaged or lost 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 usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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