10 best long-distance moving companies in Stickney, IL

There are a variety of factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges like how to move your car.

Ease your concerns by hiring the right movers for the job. That’s why we’ve compiled this overview of the top long-distance movers in Stickney to help you, your family, and your belongings arrive 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 be aware of. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only operate within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on time. Keep in mind that certain movers might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Local Stickney moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and experience, especially when relocating to another state. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Stickney

When you're choosing a long-distance moving company, the wide range of options can be overwhelming. Here are some tips for choosing a legitimate long-distance moving company in Stickney.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of options for insurance coverage: 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 options. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to completely protect your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to provide a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Stickney several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Make sure these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing plans. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Ask 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 fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about particular long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. You should also ask neighbors and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be challenging and more expensive to book a mover. Stickney also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you suspicious. Trustworthy moving companies generally won't demand your complete payment before the move. If a moving company has a long history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A good piece of advice for long-distance moves is to reserve your movers far enough ahead of time. We recommend scheduling your move at least three months in advance, or possibly earlier if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we suggest starting a month ahead of time. When it comes to fragile, sentimental, or valuable 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.

Putting together a checklist of all the things 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 toiletries, medicine, and extra clothes.

Finally, make sure to get enough rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection is pricier but includes greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it has less coverage. With this option, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged possessions.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. While this typically 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