10 best long-distance moving companies in Potomac, MD

There are a range of importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges such as how to move your car.

The right moving professionals can help ease your issues. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've put together this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Potomac.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are a few key differences to be aware of. Local movers only offer services within a specific geographic area and frequently charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such requests at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies typically charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers commonly charge based on the time required for your move. Some moving companies, however, may use a mix of time and weight to determine their rates, so it's important to check your provider's pricing structure.

Local Potomac movers may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and stress 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 Potomac

Selecting the right long-distance mover is important, and the choices can be overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of picking a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Potomac, we've put together some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. In addition to the insurance options offered by your mover, obtaining your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your possessions. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Potomac several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Ensure these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies offer financing plans. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help cover expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We advise researching several options to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others have said about particular long-distance moving companies by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. You should also ask neighbors and family for 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 costlier to hire a moving company. Potomac also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the school year 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 cautious of a mover that asks for your full payment before the move. Steer clear of moving companies with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to book your moving company well in advance of your move date. To ensure an easy move, hire your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and potentially even more if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we suggest getting started a month in advance. You might prefer to have certain items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

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

Pack essentials for the first few days of your move, such as extra clothes, toiletries, and medications.

Finally, on the night before your move, 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 any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers are required to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some movers may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it provides less protection. If you choose this plan, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are lost or damaged.

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. 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