10 best long-distance moving companies in Proviso, IL

There are a range of factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges like how to move your car.

Selecting the right movers can help ease your problems. We've compiled this overview of the top long-distance movers in Proviso so you, your loved ones, and your possessions arrive to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only assist with local moves. Local moving companies only operate within a specific geographic area and frequently charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such requests 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. Some movers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to set their prices, so it's important to check your provider's pricing structure.

Local Proviso moving companies are typically more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when moving between states. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Proviso

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options may feel overwhelming, making it challenging to select the right one for your needs. Below, we provide some recommendations on how to find a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Proviso.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, ask about the options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance options offered by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed explanation 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 mover. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to supply a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We suggest seeking out quotes several months before your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to request detailed quotes from several long-distance movers in Proviso. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer 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 choice to help with cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several choices to make sure you find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others say about specific long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and loved ones.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to get a mover. Since Proviso is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Legitimate moving companies generally won't demand your complete payment upfront. If a moving company has a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to reserve your moving company well in advance of your move date. We suggest scheduling your move at least three months in advance, or possibly earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we advise starting a month beforehand. You probably have fragile, sentimental, or valuable items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Make a list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move. The list should include tasks such as updating your address with the Illinois DMV.

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

Finally, make sure to get a full night’s sleep the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is a necessity since it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers must provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. While Full Value Protection is more expensive, it offers greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it gives less protection. If you choose this plan, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are damaged or lost.

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. 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