10 best long-distance moving companies in Schaumburg, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves present their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about challenges such as how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Selecting the right moving professionals can help alleviate your worries. That’s why we’ve compiled this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Schaumburg to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are a few key differences to note. Local movers usually only operate within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers commonly charge based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies often set fees based on the length of time needed for your move. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific location and potentially offer less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves is invaluable. These companies are more likely to have the proper 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 Schaumburg

When you're picking a long-distance moving company, the wide range of options can feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for finding a legitimate long-distance mover in Schaumburg.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, inquiring about these or similar options is a good idea. To fully protect your possessions during the move, we recommend getting personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Schaumburg and get itemized cost breakdowns. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing options to help you pay for your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple loans to make sure you choose the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what other clients have said about certain long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to get and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Schaumburg also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Legitimate movers generally won't demand your complete payment upfront. Avoid moving companies with a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your movers far enough ahead of time is extremely important for a successful long-distance move. It's best if you plan your move at least three months ahead of time. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. When it comes to valuable, fragile, or sentimental belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

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

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

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain possessions 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 in the long-run you'll get more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it provides less coverage. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are damaged or lost.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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