10 best long-distance moving companies in Vernon Hills, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in important ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues such as how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

Choosing the right movers can help lessen your worries. We've compiled this list of the leading long-distance movers in Vernon Hills so you, your loved ones, and your possessions arrive to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in a few ways. Local movers generally offer moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a significant fee to do so.

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

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Vernon Hills

Selecting the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options may be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of picking a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Vernon Hills, we've compiled some advice below.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, asking about these or similar insurance options is a good idea. To completely protect your belongings during the move, we suggest getting your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Vernon Hills several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing plans. A moving or relocation loan can pay for some of the cost. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare a few options to make sure you choose the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what previous clients have said about specific long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to book a mover. Vernon Hills also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you suspicious. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your entire payment upfront. If a moving company has an extensive history of bad 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 helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to find your moving company well in advance of your move date. We suggest booking movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Writing a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both 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 suitcase with necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as medications, extra clothes, and toothbrushes.

Finally, make sure to get a full night’s sleep the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll give you money back if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

All interstate movers are required to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to repair, replace, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it has less coverage. This insurance requires your moving company to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings lost or damaged during the move.

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