10 best long-distance moving companies in Plainfield, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves bring their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues such as how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

The right movers can help put your mind at ease. We've put together this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Plainfield so you, your loved ones, and your possessions make it to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are many key differences to be aware of. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only operate 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 charge based on time, while long-distance movers more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. However, some movers use a mix of time and weight to calculate their rates, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific city and potentially offer less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves is indispensable. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Plainfield

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the choices may be overwhelming, making it challenging to hire the right one for you. See the list below for some tips on choosing a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Plainfield.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two kinds of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or similar insurance options. To fully protect your belongings during the move, we recommend purchasing personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your moving company. We discuss long-distance moving insurance plans in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Plainfield several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Make sure these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other 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 option to help with expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several choices allows you to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what previous clients have said about particular long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be challenging and costlier to book a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in Plainfield, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you suspicious. Additionally, reliable movers won't ask for the full payment upfront. Avoid moving companies that have a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key tip for long-distance moves is to reserve your movers far enough in advance. We suggest planning your move at least 90 days beforehand, or even earlier if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we recommend starting a month beforehand. You might prefer to keep certain fragile, valuable, or sentimental possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as notifying the Illinois DMV of your new address.

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

The night before moving day, remember to get a full night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll cover the cost if any of your possessions are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain belongings that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it has less protection. With this option, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged possessions.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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