10 best long-distance moving companies in Rock Island, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves have their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move your car.

Selecting the right movers can help lessen your issues. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings make it to your new home without incident, we've put together this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Rock Island.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are distinct in many ways. Local moving companies generally offer 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.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. Keep in mind that some moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, especially when it comes to moving from one state to another. Choosing a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Rock Island

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the choices may be overwhelming, making it difficult to choose the right one for you. Here are some tips for choosing a legitimate long-distance moving company in Rock Island.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, inquiring about these or other insurance options is a good idea. We also suggest getting your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to provide clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Rock Island several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Ensure these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing plans to help you pay for your move. A moving or relocation loan can help cover cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several options to make sure you choose 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 think about certain long-distance movers. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to get and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Because there are so many college students living in Rock Island, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you wary. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies that have an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to schedule your moving company well in advance of your move date. We recommend scheduling movers at least 90 days 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 on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might choose to keep certain sentimental, fragile, or valuable possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

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

Put together a bag with necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as toiletries, extra clothes, and medicine.

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers must provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable possessions (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. Full Value Protection costs more but gives you more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it has less protection. If you choose this option, your moving company will pay 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 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