10 best long-distance moving companies in Peoria, IL

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

Put your mind at ease by hiring the right movers for the job. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've created this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Peoria.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are different in a few ways. Local movers typically only offer services within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to set fees based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies are more likely to charge by time. Some moving providers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to determine their prices, so it's important to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when it comes to moving from one state to another. Long-distance movers can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Peoria

Hiring the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices can feel overwhelming. See the list below for some recommendations on picking a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Peoria.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers supply a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start requesting estimates several months before your move. Contact multiple long-distance moving providers in Peoria and ask for itemized quotes. Ensure these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing options. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good strategy to help cover expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several choices allows you to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what other customers say about specific long-distance movers. You should also ask neighbors and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to get and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that provide “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding estimates. Additionally, reliable movers shouldn’t ask for the full payment before the move. Avoid movers that have a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to reserve your moving company well before of your move date. We advise scheduling your move at least three months beforehand, or even earlier if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we suggest getting started a month in advance. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Making a checklist of all the things 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.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by putting together a suitcase with items such as medicine, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and extra clothes.

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 items are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers need to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but gives you better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less protection. If you choose this option, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy 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