10 best long-distance moving companies in Streamwood, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves bring unique challenges that distinguish them from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move your car.

The right moving professionals can help put your mind at ease. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Streamwood to help you, your family, and your belongings make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge by weight, while local moving companies more often set fees based on time. Keep in mind that some movers might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Local Streamwood moving companies are often more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Streamwood

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the choices can be overwhelming, making it challenging to hire the right one for you. Below, we have compiled some advice on how to choose a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Streamwood.

• 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. You can ask about these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. We also suggest obtaining your own moving insurance to completely protect your possessions. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers provide a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Streamwood several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Confirm that these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good choice to help with cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend researching several options to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what previous clients have said about certain long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be difficult and costlier to hire a mover. Streamwood also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that offer “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding estimates. Reputable moving companies generally won't request your complete payment before the move. If a mover has a long history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to find your moving company well before of your move date. To ensure an easy move, schedule your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. When it comes to fragile, valuable, or sentimental items, 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.

It's also a good idea 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 with necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as medications, toiletries, and extra clothes.

The night before your big move, remember to get a good night's sleep.

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 damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. Some movers might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it gives you less protection. With this plan, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged possessions.

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

Sources

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