10 best long-distance moving companies in Essex, MD

There are a range of importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may be dealing with higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges such as how to move your car.

Picking the right movers can help lessen your problems. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the leading long-distance movers in Essex to help you, your family, and your belongings make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. Keep in mind that some moving companies might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Local Essex moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely 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 Essex

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in Essex requires research to make sure the company meets your needs and fits your budget. Here are some tips for picking a trustworthy long-distance mover in Essex.

• 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 clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves within the same state. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to provide a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Essex several months before your move and get detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several options allows you to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others think about specific long-distance movers. Friends and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to hire a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in Essex, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you cautious. Additionally, legitimate moving companies won't request the full payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies with a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your moving company well before your move date is critical when planning a long-distance move. We recommend hiring movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You might prefer to keep certain possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

We also recommend making a checklist of everything that needs to be done 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 extra clothes, toothbrushes, and medications.

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 vital since it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers need to have two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain belongings that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. Full Value Protection is more expensive but provides greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it has less protection. With this insurance, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. 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