10 best long-distance moving companies in St. Clair, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves present unique challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

Picking the right moving professionals can help ease your problems. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings make it to your new home without incident, we've put together this overview of the leading long-distance movers in St. Clair.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only assist with local moves. Local movers only work within a specific geographic area and usually 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 mover is that they typically set fees based on the weight of your items, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on time. Keep in mind that certain movers might use both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when it comes to moving between states. These companies are more likely to have the relevant 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 St. Clair

Choosing the right long-distance mover in St. Clair requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and fits your budget. Here are some tips for choosing a reliable long-distance moving company in St. Clair.

• 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. You can inquire about these or other options for long-distance moves inside one state. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to completely protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers provide clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in St. Clair several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies have financing options. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help with expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We advise looking into several choices to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others have said about specific long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. You should also ask neighbors and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Because there are so many college students living in St. Clair, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that offer “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding quotes. Legitimate movers generally shouldn't demand your complete payment before the move. Avoid moving companies that have an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to reserve your moving company well in advance of your move date. To ensure a smooth move, hire your movers no less than three months before your move date, and possibly even more if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. When it comes to fragile, sentimental, or valuable belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

It's also important to make a checklist of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Illinois DMV.

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

The night before your move, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll give you money back if any of your possessions are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but provides more coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it gives you reduced coverage. This plan requires your moving company 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 cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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