10 best long-distance moving companies in Urbana, IL

There are a range of factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues like how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

Put your mind at ease by hiring the best movers for the job. That’s why we’ve created this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Urbana 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 different in several ways. Local moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers typically charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers often charge based on the time needed for your move. However, some companies use a combination of time and weight to calculate their prices, so be sure to check with your specific provider about its prices.

Local Urbana moving companies are typically more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and experience, especially when moving between states. Long-distance moving 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 Urbana

Hiring the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices can be overwhelming. Here are some tips for choosing a legitimate long-distance moving company in Urbana.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. To fully protect your belongings during the move, we suggest purchasing personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to provide a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We recommend asking for quotes several months ahead of your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to get detailed quotes from several long-distance movers in Urbana. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help cover expenses. Ask your mover 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 fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what other clients have said about specific long-distance moving companies. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and relatives.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Because there are so many college students living in Urbana, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Trustworthy moving companies generally won't ask for your complete payment upfront. If a mover has a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to secure your moving company well in advance of your move date. We advise planning your move at least three months in advance, or even earlier if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. You probably have sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Writing 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.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a bag with items such as extra clothes, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and medications.

The night before moving day, remember to get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers are required to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some movers might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but provides greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it has less protection. This insurance requires your moving company to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items lost or damaged during the move.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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