10 best long-distance moving companies in Pekin, IL

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

The right moving company can help put your mind at ease. That’s why we’ve made this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Pekin to help you, your family, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ from those that only assist with local moves. Local movers generally provide moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

Local movers are also more likely to set fees based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight. Some moving providers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to set their final cost, so it's necessary to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Local Pekin moving companies are typically more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and experience, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance movers 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 Pekin

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices can be overwhelming, making it difficult to pick the right one for you. To help you navigate the process of finding a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Pekin, we've collected some guidance below.

• 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 customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance options carried by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed overview 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 qualified mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to provide a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Pekin several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing plans to help you pay for your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several choices allows you to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what previous clients have said about certain long-distance moving companies. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be difficult and more expensive to hire a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Additionally, trustworthy moving companies shouldn’t request the full payment upfront. If a moving company has a long 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 key piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to secure your moving company well before of your move date. We advise booking movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. You might choose to keep certain valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Write a list of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move. The list should include items such as updating your address with the Illinois DMV.

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

Lastly, make sure to get plenty of rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it gives you reduced coverage. With this insurance, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items.

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. 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