10 best long-distance moving companies in Odenton, MD

There are many importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with concerns such as how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

The right movers can help ease your issues. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home without incident, we've created this overview of the best long-distance movers in Odenton.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to charge based on how long a job takes. However, some companies use a mix of time and weight to calculate their prices, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific location and potentially offer more affordable rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves is invaluable. Hiring a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Odenton

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options can feel overwhelming, making it difficult to choose the right one for your move. See the list below for some advice on picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Odenton.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, inquiring about these or similar insurance options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance coverage offered by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to supply a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Odenton several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies have financing plans. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong choice to help pay for some of the expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several choices allows you to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what others have said about specific long-distance moving companies. Friends and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to get and more expensive if you’re moving during the summer months. Odenton also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your entire payment before the move. If a mover has an extensive history of negative 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 useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to secure your moving company well in advance of your move date. We recommend scheduling your move at least three months ahead of time, or possibly earlier if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we recommend getting started a month in advance. You probably have fragile, valuable, or sentimental belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Putting together a checklist of all the things that need to be done 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 a bag of essentials for the first few days, such as medications, extra clothes, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

Finally, on the night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll cover the cost if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

All interstate movers need to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive items (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. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it has reduced coverage. If you choose this plan, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. This usually 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