10 best long-distance moving companies in Columbia, MD

There are a variety of importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns like how to move your car.

Picking the right moving professionals can help lessen your challenges. That’s why we’ve put together this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Columbia to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions get 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 some key differences to note. Local movers typically only work within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to charge based on how long a job takes. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when setting their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer less expensive rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves is indispensable. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Columbia

Choosing the right long-distance mover is important, and the options may be overwhelming. Below, we provide some recommendations on how to pick a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Columbia.

• 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. For long-distance moves inside one state, looking into these or other options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance options carried 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 coverage, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Columbia several months before your move and get detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, ensure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several options allows you to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others have said about specific long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to book and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Since Columbia is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you cautious. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your entire payment before the move. If a mover has a long history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A good tip for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough in advance. It's best if you schedule your move at least 90 days ahead of time. This gives you plenty of time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, 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 choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

It's also important to make a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Maryland DMV.

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

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers are required to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement 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 a pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but gives you better coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it gives you less protection. With this plan, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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