10 best long-distance moving companies in Vernon, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves have unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues like how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

The right movers can help ease your issues. That’s why we’ve made this guide to the best long-distance movers in Vernon to help you, your loved ones, 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. Local movers often only work within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to charge based on how long a job takes. However, some movers use a mix of time and weight to set their prices, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when moving from one state to another. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches 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

Selecting the right long-distance mover is important, and the options may be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Vernon, we've gathered some recommendations below.

• 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. You can ask about these or other options for long-distance moves inside one state. We also suggest obtaining your own moving insurance to fully protect your possessions. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a qualified mover. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in Vernon several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Make sure these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing plans to help you afford your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong choice to help pay for some of the cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several options to make sure you choose the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what other clients have said about certain long-distance movers. Neighbors and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and costlier to get a moving company. Vernon also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that give you “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding quotes. Additionally, reputable movers won't request the full payment upfront. Steer clear of movers that have an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your moving company well before your move date is essential when planning a long-distance move. It's best if you schedule your move at least 90 days beforehand. This gives you plenty of time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we advise getting started a month in advance. You might prefer to keep certain valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Put together a list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move. The list should include things 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 extra clothes, medications, and toothbrushes.

Finally, make sure to get plenty of 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 possessions are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires 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 possessions lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but includes more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it has less coverage. With this insurance, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items.

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