10 best long-distance moving companies in South Laurel, MD

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in significant ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Alleviate your worries by hiring the right moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve made this overview of the best long-distance movers in South Laurel to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ significantly from those that only offer local moves. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic radius. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge by weight, while local movers are more likely to charge by time. Some moving providers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to set their final cost, so it's necessary to check your provider's pricing structure.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when moving between states. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in South Laurel

Picking the right long-distance mover in South Laurel requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. Below, we provide some guidance on how to pick a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in South Laurel.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, look into the insurance options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance options offered by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We suggest looking for quotes several months before your move. Get in touch with multiple long-distance moving providers in South Laurel and request detailed cost breakdowns. Ensure these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing plans to help you afford your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Talk with your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few choices to make sure you get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what others have said about particular long-distance movers. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and family.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to get and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Because there are so many college students living in South Laurel, 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 quote is a red flag. Additionally, reputable movers shouldn’t demand the full payment upfront. If a moving company has an extensive history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A great piece of advice for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough in advance. We advise planning your move at least 90 days beforehand, or even earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we advise starting a month ahead of time. You might choose to keep certain sentimental, valuable, or fragile possessions, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

We also advise making a checklist of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Maryland DMV.

Put together necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as medicine, toiletries, and extra clothes.

Lastly, make sure to get plenty of rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves because it'll provide reimbursement if any of your belongings are lost or damagedby your movers.

All interstate movers are required to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection is pricier, it gives you greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it has less protection. This option requires your moving company to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings lost or damaged during the move.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. While this usually 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