10 best long-distance moving companies in Randallstown, MD

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

The right moving professionals can help put your mind at ease. That’s why we’ve made this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Randallstown to help you, your family, and your possessions make it safely to your new home.

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. Local movers only work within a specific geographic area and often charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such jobs at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers usually charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers usually charge based on the time required for your move. Keep in mind that some moving companies might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Local Randallstown moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific city and provide less expensive 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 proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Randallstown

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in Randallstown requires research to make sure the company meets your needs and fits your budget. To help you navigate the process of choosing a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Randallstown, we've put together some recommendations below.

• 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. For long-distance moves inside one state, inquiring about these or similar options is a good idea. To better protect your possessions during the move, we recommend getting your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. You can find more thorough 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 company is handling your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months in advance to ensure you have adequate time to plan your move. Get in touch with several long-distance moving providers in Randallstown and request itemized cost breakdowns. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing plans to help you afford your move. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong strategy to help cover expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We suggest looking into several choices to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what other clients have said about specific long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and relatives for 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 between May and September. Randallstown also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that give you “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding prices. Additionally, trustworthy movers shouldn’t ask for the full payment before the move. If a mover has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to schedule your moving company well before of your move date. We suggest scheduling movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least four weeks in advance. You might choose to keep certain sentimental, valuable, or fragile items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Make a list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move. The list should include items such as updating your address with the Maryland DMV.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days, such as medications, toothbrushes, and extra clothes.

Finally, make sure to get a good night’s sleep the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement 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. Although Full Value Protection is pricier, it gives you greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less coverage. If you choose this plan, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are lost or damaged.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. 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