10 best long-distance moving companies in O'Fallon, MO

There are a variety of factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about challenges such as how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

The right movers can help put your mind at ease. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've compiled this guide to the top long-distance movers in O'Fallon.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are several key differences to keep in mind. Local movers typically only offer services within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. Certain moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when setting their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific city and potentially offer less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves is indispensable. 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 stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in O'Fallon

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the choices can feel overwhelming, making it challenging to choose the right one for your needs. See the list below for some recommendations on choosing a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in O'Fallon.

• 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 customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar options for long-distance moves inside one state. In addition to the insurance coverage offered by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers supply customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in O'Fallon several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Ensure these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to 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: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others think about particular long-distance movers. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. O'Fallon 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. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your entire payment before the move. Steer clear of movers with a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful tip for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough ahead of time. To ensure a smooth move, reserve your movers no less than three months before your move date, and potentially even more if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. When it comes to sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

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

Pack necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, medications, and extra clothes.

Lastly, make sure to get a good night’s sleep the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is a must for long-distance moves. It'll provide reimbursement if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but provides greater coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it gives you less protection. With this plan, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged possessions.

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

Sources

Missouri Department of Revenue U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration