10 best long-distance moving companies in Germantown, MD

There are many importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves 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 worries by selecting the right moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best long-distance movers in Germantown to help you, your family, and your belongings make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are many key differences to consider. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only work within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies are more likely to charge by time. However, some movers use a combination of time and weight to calculate their prices, so be sure to ask your specific provider about its prices.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific city and potentially offer more affordable rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves is indispensable. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Germantown

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the choices may feel overwhelming, making it challenging to choose the right one for you. Here are some tips for choosing a reliable long-distance mover in Germantown.

• 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. Even if your long-distance move doesn't cross state lines, look into the options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance options carried by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed explanation 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 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: Request quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have plenty of time to plan your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to request detailed quotes from multiple long-distance movers in Germantown. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing options to help you afford your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong strategy to help with cost. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple choices to make sure you choose 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 say about particular long-distance moving companies. You should also ask friends and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be challenging and costlier to get a mover. Germantown also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you suspicious. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your full payment upfront. Avoid movers with a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Booking your movers well before your move date is key when getting ready for a long-distance move. To ensure an easy move, find your movers no less than three months before your move date, and potentially even more if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You might prefer to have certain items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

We also suggest making 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.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by putting together a suitcase with items such as extra clothes, medicine, and toiletries.

The night before your move, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll pay you back if any of your items are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. Some movers might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but provides more coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it provides reduced coverage. If you choose this plan, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy after you move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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