10 best long-distance moving companies in Parkville, MD

There are a range of factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may have to deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move your car.

Hiring the right moving professionals can help ease your concerns. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've created this list of the top long-distance movers in Parkville.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only do local moves. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers typically only operate within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

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

Although local movers may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be more affordable), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when it comes to moving between states. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Parkville

Picking the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options may be overwhelming. Below, we have compiled some recommendations on how to find a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Parkville.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, look into the options provided by your mover. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to provide a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in Parkville several months before your move and request detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, ensure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several options allows you to pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others say about particular long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Because there are so many college students living in Parkville, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding quote is a red flag. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment upfront. Avoid movers that have a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to book your moving company well before of your move date. We advise booking your move at least 90 days ahead of time, or even earlier if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You might prefer to have certain possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Making a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both 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.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a bag with items such as medications, extra clothes, and toiletries.

Finally, on the night before moving day, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover belongings 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 better coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it has less protection. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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