10 best long-distance moving companies in Montgomery Village, MD

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in several ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about concerns such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the right moving professionals for the job. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive at your new home without incident, we've put together this overview of the best long-distance movers in Montgomery Village.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only do local moves. Local movers generally offer moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on time. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when establishing their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Although local movers may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, especially when it comes to moving between states. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Montgomery Village

When you're picking a long-distance mover, the wide range of choices may be overwhelming. See the list below for some guidance on finding a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Montgomery Village.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can ask about these or similar options for long-distance moves inside one state. In addition to the insurance coverage provided by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers supply a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have adequate time to plan your move. Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Montgomery Village and get detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can with cost. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several options allows you to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what other customers have said about specific long-distance moving companies. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• 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 mover. Montgomery Village also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you suspicious. Additionally, legitimate moving companies shouldn’t ask for the full payment before the move. If a moving company has an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to book your moving company well before of your move date. We recommend scheduling your move at least 90 days beforehand, or even earlier if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might choose to keep certain valuable, sentimental, or fragile possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Create a list of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move. The list should include tasks such as updating your address with the Maryland DMV.

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

Finally, make sure to get plenty of rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some movers might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less coverage. With this insurance, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged possessions.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy during your move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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