10 best long-distance moving companies in South Elgin, IL

There are a range of factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with challenges like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Picking the right moving professionals can help lessen your issues. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in South Elgin to help you, your family, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only do local moves. Local movers usually only work within a certain geographic radius. They'll usually charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local movers more often charge based on how long a job takes. Certain moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when calculating their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local South Elgin moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when relocating to another state. Long-distance movers 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 stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in South Elgin

Picking the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices can be overwhelming. Below, we provide some guidance on how to pick a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in South Elgin.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or other insurance options. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to better protect your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in South Elgin several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, ensure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help cover cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several loans allows you to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what other customers thought about specific long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Friends and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means movers may be harder to hire and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months. Since South Elgin is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Additionally, reputable movers won't request the full payment before the move. Avoid moving companies with an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Hiring your moving company far enough ahead of time is essential when getting ready for a long-distance move. We suggest scheduling movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You probably have valuable, sentimental, or fragile belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

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

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

The night before moving day, remember to get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. Although Full Value Protection is pricier, it gives you more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it has reduced coverage. If you choose this insurance, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for items 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