10 best long-distance moving companies in Tinley Park, IL

There are many importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against concerns like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Put your mind at ease by choosing the best moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve made this list of the best long-distance movers in Tinley Park to help you, your family, and your possessions make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only do local moves. Local movers only offer services within a specific geographic radius and frequently charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to such jobs at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers usually set fees based on the weight of your items, while local movers usually charge based on the time required for your move. Certain moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when setting their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local Tinley Park movers may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Tinley Park

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options may feel overwhelming, making it challenging to pick the right one for you. Below, we have compiled some advice on how to pick a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Tinley Park.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or similar insurance options. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers supply a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Tinley Park several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing options to help you pay for your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several loans allows you to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what others say about specific long-distance movers. Also, get recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to get and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Tinley Park also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you wary. Reliable moving companies generally won't request your complete payment before the move. If a mover has an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to book your moving company well in advance of your move date. It's best if you schedule your move at least three months beforehand. This gives you enough time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You might choose to keep certain valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

We also advise making a checklist of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, 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 packing a suitcase with items such as toothbrushes, medications, and extra clothes.

Finally, on the night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. Although Full Value Protection costs more, it gives you more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it has less protection. This plan requires your moving company to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over 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