10 best long-distance moving companies in Olney, MD

Long-distance or interstate moves have unique challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues like how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

Alleviate your worries by picking the best movers for the job. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home without incident, we've put together this list of the best long-distance movers in Olney.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

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

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. While 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 can't be beaten. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Olney

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options may feel overwhelming, making it difficult to choose the right one for you. See the list below for some guidance on choosing a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Olney.

• 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 customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or similar insurance options. In addition to the insurance coverage offered by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance coverage 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 qualified company is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Olney several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong strategy to help pay for some of the cost. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several options allows you to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what other clients have said about certain long-distance moving companies. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable 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 for moves. This can make it harder and more expensive to get a moving company. Since Olney is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that provide “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding prices. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your full payment before the move. If a moving company has a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to book your moving company well before of your move date. We suggest planning your move at least three months ahead of time, or even earlier if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. When it comes to sentimental, valuable, or fragile belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

To stay organized, prepare a detailed list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as notifying the Maryland DMV of your new address.

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, medications, and toothbrushes.

The night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain possessions that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. Full Value Protection costs more but offers more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less coverage. With this plan, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged possessions.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may cover some of your belongings during your 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