10 best long-distance moving companies in Springfield, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in important ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against challenges like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

The right moving company can help put your mind at ease. That’s why we’ve compiled this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Springfield to help you, your family, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in many ways. Local movers only offer services within a specific geographic area and frequently charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such requests at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies more often charge based on how long a job takes. However, some providers use a mix of time and weight to calculate their prices, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

Local Springfield moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Selecting a long-distance mover 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 Springfield

Picking the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices may be overwhelming. See the list below for some recommendations on choosing a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Springfield.

• 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 options. In addition to the insurance options provided by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to provide clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months in advance to ensure you have adequate time to plan your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to get itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Springfield. Make sure these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies have financing options. A moving or relocation loan can cover expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple loans to make sure you select 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. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that provide “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding estimates. Reliable moving companies generally won't ask for your complete payment before the move. Avoid moving companies that have a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to schedule your moving company well in advance of your move date. We advise scheduling movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need specialized moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we recommend getting started a month in advance. You might prefer to keep certain possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Writing a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Illinois DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

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

Lastly, make sure to get plenty of rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is a must for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if some of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you better coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it provides less protection. This option requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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