10 best long-distance moving companies in Wheaton, MD

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in many ways. 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.

Selecting the right moving professionals can help alleviate your issues. That’s why we’ve put together this overview of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Wheaton to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions arrive 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 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.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on time. Keep in mind that certain movers might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer more affordable rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves is indispensable. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Wheaton

When you're selecting a long-distance moving company, the wide range of options may feel overwhelming. See the list below for some tips on finding a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Wheaton.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other insurance options for long-distance moves inside one state. In addition to the insurance coverage provided by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers 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 enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to supply a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We suggest asking for quotes several months before your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to request itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Wheaton. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies offer financing plans. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong strategy to help cover expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several options allows you to pick the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what other customers have said about specific long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be difficult and more expensive to get a mover. Wheaton also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you suspicious. Reliable moving companies generally won't request your complete payment upfront. Avoid moving companies that have a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Hiring your moving company well before your move date is extremely important when preparing for a long-distance move. It's best if you schedule your move at least 90 days in advance. This gives you plenty of time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

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

Putting together a checklist of all the things 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.

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

The night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is key because it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain possessions 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 better coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it has less protection. This option requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings damaged or lost during the move.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, 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