10 best long-distance moving companies in Fort Washington, MD

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in several ways. When you're moving between states, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move your car.

The right moving company can help put your mind at ease. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Fort Washington to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in many ways. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only work within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies are more likely to charge based on how long a job takes. However, some movers use a mix of time and weight to set their prices, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

Local Fort Washington moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Fort Washington

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices can be overwhelming, making it challenging to select the right one for your move. See the list below for some tips on picking a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Fort Washington.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, inquiring about these or similar insurance options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance options carried by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to supply customers with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: We advise looking for quotes several months ahead of your move. Ask for itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Fort Washington. As you compare quotes, ensure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans 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. Talk with your mover 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: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what previous customers think about specific long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Fort Washington also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies with an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A good tip for long-distance moves is to reserve your movers far enough ahead of time. We recommend planning your move at least 90 days in advance, or possibly earlier if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You might prefer to keep certain possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, write a detailed list of all the necessary tasks both before and after your move, such as notifying the Maryland DMV of your new address.

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

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll cover the cost if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers are required to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items 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. Full Value Protection is more expensive but includes better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it has less coverage. If you choose this option, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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