10 best long-distance moving companies in Frederick, MD

Long-distance or interstate moves have unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with concerns such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Put your mind at ease by picking the right movers for the job. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've created this overview of the top long-distance movers in Frederick.

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 consider. Local movers generally offer moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

Local moving companies are also more likely to charge based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight they're moving. Some moving providers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to set their final cost, so it's important to check your provider's pricing structure.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when it comes to moving between states. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and stress 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 Frederick

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices may be overwhelming, making it difficult to pick the right one for your move. Here are some tips for choosing a legitimate long-distance moving company in Frederick.

• 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. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or similar options. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to completely protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to provide clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Start asking for estimates several months before your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to ask for itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Frederick. As you compare estimates, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing plans. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help cover expenses. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several loans allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what other customers have said about certain long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving between May and September.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Trustworthy moving companies generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment upfront. If a moving company has an extensive history of poor 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 key piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to reserve your moving company well in advance of your move date. We suggest hiring movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You probably have sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Creating 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, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

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

The night before moving day, remember to get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but provides more coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it gives you reduced coverage. This insurance requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions lost or damaged during the move.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, 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