10 best long-distance moving companies in Bowie, MD

There are a variety of importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

Alleviate your concerns by hiring the right movers for the job. We've created this guide to the best long-distance movers in Bowie so you, your family, and your possessions make it to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ from those that only assist with local moves. Local movers often only work within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

Local movers are also more likely to charge based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight they're moving. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when it comes to moving between states. Long-distance moving companies 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 Bowie

Finding the right long-distance moving company in Bowie requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. To help you navigate the process of picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Bowie, we've collected some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves within the same state, asking about these or other insurance options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance coverage provided by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you better 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 movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a qualified company. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Start collecting quotes several months ahead of your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to request itemized cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Bowie. As you compare estimates, ensure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing plans to help you pay for your move. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help with cost. 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: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what others say about specific long-distance movers. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• 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 moving company. Because there are so many college students living in Bowie, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Additionally, reputable movers won't request the full payment upfront. If a mover has an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough in advance. It's best if you schedule your move at least three months beforehand. This gives you enough time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need more specialized services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. When it comes to fragile, sentimental, or valuable items, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than 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 Maryland DMV.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by putting together a suitcase with items such as toothbrushes, extra clothes, and medicine.

Finally, make sure to get a full night’s sleep the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll cover the cost if any of your possessions are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (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 greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it has less protection. This insurance requires your movers to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions damaged or lost during the move.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration