10 best long-distance moving companies in Palos, IL

There are many importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move your car.

Choosing the right movers can help ease your concerns. We've put together this guide to the best long-distance movers in Palos so you, your family, and your belongings make it to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ 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 usually only work within a certain geographic area 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 belongings, while local movers usually charge based on the length of time required for your move. However, some providers use a combination of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be more affordable), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, especially when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies 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 Palos

Picking the right long-distance mover is important, and the options may feel overwhelming. Below, we offer some recommendations on how to find a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Palos.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to completely protect your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers provide clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months in advance to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. Request detailed quotes from several long-distance movers in Palos. As you compare estimates, ensure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing plans. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend researching several choices to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what others say about specific long-distance movers. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Palos 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: Be suspicious of movers that provide “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding quotes. Reliable moving companies generally shouldn't demand your complete payment upfront. Avoid moving companies with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your movers far enough ahead of time is extremely important when preparing for a long-distance move. We advise booking movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need more specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

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

Writing a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both 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.

Pack essentials for the first few days of your move, such as medications, extra clothes, and toiletries.

Finally, make sure to get enough rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide money back for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less protection. This insurance requires your movers to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items damaged or lost during the move.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. It may be helpful to review your policy, 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