10 best long-distance moving companies in Wilmette, IL

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

The right movers can help lessen your issues. We've created this list of the top long-distance movers in Wilmette so you, your loved ones, and your possessions arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are different in many ways. Local movers only work within a specific geographic radius and often charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to such requests at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers usually charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers commonly set fees based on the time required for your move. Some moving companies, however, may use a mix of time and weight to determine their prices, so it's important to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

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

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Wilmette

When you're hiring a long-distance mover, the wide range of choices can be overwhelming. Here are some tips for picking a legitimate, reliable long-distance moving company in Wilmette.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can inquire about these or other insurance options for long-distance moves inside one state. In addition to the insurance options provided by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers supply clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Wilmette several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing plans to help you afford your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. We recommend looking into several choices to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what other customers thought about certain long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. You should also ask neighbors and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be difficult and costlier to get a moving company. Wilmette 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: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Reputable movers generally shouldn't demand your complete payment before the move. If a moving company has an extensive history of poor 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

Scheduling your moving company well before your move date is critical when planning a long-distance move. We advise scheduling movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we recommend getting started a month in advance. When it comes to valuable, fragile, or sentimental belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Write a list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move. The list should include items such as updating your address with the Illinois DMV.

Pack a bag with essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as extra clothes, medicine, and toothbrushes.

Lastly, make sure to get enough rest the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers have to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but includes better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it has less coverage. If you choose this plan, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are lost or damaged.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. While this usually 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