10 best long-distance moving companies in North Laurel, MD

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in a variety of ways. When you're moving between states, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Picking the right moving professionals can help relieve your worries. We've put together this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in North Laurel so you, your loved ones, and your possessions get to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in many ways. Local movers usually only work within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that area if they’re willing to at all.

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

Local North Laurel moving companies are typically more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches 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 North Laurel

Hiring the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices can be overwhelming. Here are some tips for picking a trustworthy long-distance mover in North Laurel.

• 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. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can inquire about these or other options. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as requiring movers to supply clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in North Laurel several months before your move and get detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, confirm 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, many moving companies offer financing plans. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help cover expenses. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several choices allows you to find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what other customers thought about particular long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• 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 during the summer months. Since North Laurel is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that provide “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding estimates. Reliable moving companies generally shouldn't demand your complete payment before the move. Avoid movers that have a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

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

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we recommend starting a month in advance. When it comes to valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

To stay organized, make 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 essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as toiletries, medications, and extra clothes.

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide money back for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable items (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. While Full Value Protection is pricier, it gives you more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it provides less coverage. This option requires your moving company to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items lost or damaged during the move.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. While this typically 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