10 best long-distance moving companies in Ellicott City, MD

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in a variety of ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues such as how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

Lessen your issues by choosing the best moving professionals for the job. We've made this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Ellicott City so you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only assist with local moves. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only offer services within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to charge based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight. However, some movers use a mix of time and weight to calculate their rates, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

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

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Ellicott City

When you're hiring a long-distance moving company, the wide range of choices may feel overwhelming. See the list below for some tips on picking a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Ellicott City.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or other options. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to better protect your belongings. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Ellicott City several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Ensure these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers offer financing plans to help you afford your move. A moving or relocation loan can help pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend looking into several options to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others have said about certain long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be difficult and more expensive to hire a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Ellicott City, 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. Additionally, legitimate movers shouldn’t demand the full payment upfront. If a mover has an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to book your moving company well in advance of your move date. To ensure an easy move, find your movers no less than 90 days ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. When it comes to sentimental, valuable, or fragile items, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Put together a list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move. The list should include things such as updating your address with the Maryland DMV.

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

Finally, on the night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is critical, as 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 have to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it provides less protection. With this insurance, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items.

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

Sources

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