10 best long-distance moving companies in Middle River, MD

There are several factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

The right movers can help ease your challenges. We've created this guide to the top long-distance movers in Middle River so you, your family, and your possessions get to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only do local moves. Local moving companies only offer services within a specific geographic radius and often charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to these requests at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to charge by time. Keep in mind that certain movers might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Local Middle River moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Using a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Middle River

Finding the right long-distance mover in Middle River requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and fits your budget. See the list below for some guidance on choosing a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Middle River.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or similar options. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to completely protect your belongings. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers 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 taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers supply a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months in advance to ensure you have plenty of time to plan your move. Contact multiple long-distance moving providers in Middle River and get detailed cost breakdowns. As you compare quotes, ensure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing options to help you pay for your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple loans to make sure you choose the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what others say about particular long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and family for 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 to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to book a moving company. Middle River also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you suspicious. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment before the move. Avoid moving companies that have an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Finding your moving company well before your move date is extremely important when getting ready for a long-distance move. It's best if you plan your move at least 90 days in advance. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. When it comes to sentimental, valuable, or fragile items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

It's also important to make a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Maryland DMV.

Put together necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as toiletries, medicine, and extra clothes.

Finally, make sure to get enough rest the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is a must for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if some of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but offers greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it gives you less protection. This option requires your moving company to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items damaged or lost during the move.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. 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