10 best long-distance moving companies in Wheatland, IL

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in several ways. When you're moving between states, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges like how to move your car.

Lessen your problems by choosing the right moving professionals for the job. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've created this list of the best long-distance movers in Wheatland.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are different in many ways. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only work within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it 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 by time. Keep in mind that some movers might use both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Local Wheatland moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when moving between states. Using a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Wheatland

Hiring the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices can feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for picking a reliable long-distance moving company in Wheatland.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, inquire about the insurance options provided by your mover. To better protect your belongings during the move, we suggest purchasing your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months in advance to ensure you have plenty of time to plan your move. Request detailed quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Wheatland. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing options to help you pay for your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good option to help with expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several choices allows you to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others have said about certain long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. You should also ask friends and family for 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 to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to hire a moving company. Wheatland also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your entire payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies that have an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Finding your movers far enough in advance is essential when preparing for a long-distance move. To ensure a smooth move, schedule your movers no less than 90 days ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. When it comes to fragile, sentimental, or valuable belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Putting together 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 essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, extra clothes, and medications.

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is key since it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it has less protection. With this option, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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