10 best long-distance moving companies in Dundalk, MD

Long-distance or interstate moves have unique challenges that distinguish them from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Ease your issues by hiring the right movers for the job. That’s why we’ve made this guide to the best long-distance movers in Dundalk to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies differ in several ways. Local moving companies only work within a specific geographic radius and frequently charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such requests 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. Some moving providers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to determine their final cost, so it's important to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific city and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Dundalk

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options can feel overwhelming, making it difficult to pick the right one for your move. Here are some tips for picking a trustworthy long-distance mover in Dundalk.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or similar insurance options. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to completely protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance plans, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Dundalk several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: Many 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. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple loans to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others think about particular long-distance moving companies. You should also ask neighbors and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Since Dundalk is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you suspicious. Legitimate moving companies generally shouldn't request your complete payment before the move. If a mover has an extensive 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 helpful tip for long-distance moves is to find your movers far enough ahead of time. It's best if you schedule your move at least 90 days ahead of time. This gives you plenty of time to hire movers. 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 by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

We also advise making a checklist of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Maryland DMV.

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

Finally, make sure to get plenty of rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll reimburse you if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable items (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 coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it has less protection. If you choose this insurance, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy when you 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