10 best movers in Lochearn, Maryland

International Van Lines is the best moving company for interstate moves. For a local move around Lochearn, use the filters below to find other local companies for your move.

Long-distance movers in Lochearn

A long-distance move means moving more than 50 miles away or to a different state. Make sure the moving company you hire has the proper federal licensing when crossing state boundaries. Interstate movers must have United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. You can use the MC number, USDOT number or mover's name to look up a carrier’s licensing status in the FMCSA’s database.

We've confirmed that the long-distance moving services below are actively licensed. They can help get you and your belongings to your new home safely and efficiently.

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4.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Includes one month of storage with long-distance moves
• Lists add-on service costs online
• Services all 50 states

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4.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Operates exclusively as a carrier
• Runs shuttles for moves between major cities
• Offers storage for high-value items and antiques

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3.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Offers flat rates for all long-distance moves
• Has secure storage facilities with 24/7 surveillance
• Includes packing and storage in all quotes

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Why is moving so expensive?

Moving within or out of Lochearn is relatively expensive, as the average hourly moving rate is higher than the national average. The higher moving rates make sense because the cost of living in Lochearn is above 81.4% of the country.

Moving costs add up fast, as there are numerous factors involved. Common moving expenses include the following:

• Fuel
• Professional labor
• Supplies
• Packing
• Junk removal
• Storage

These extra considerations can cause your total cost to climb even more:

Transporting specialty items

Moving companies may charge more to move certain items, especially those that are valuable, fragile or oversized. These items commonly are more expensive to move:

• Family heirlooms or antiques
• Heavy pieces of furniture or technology
• Artwork and sculptures
• Safes
• Pianos

If you have to move any of these items, ask potential movers whether they charge extra for them.

Tipping your movers

While tipping movers isn’t required, it's common to tip if they provide quality service. Consider tipping each mover $20–$40 per day for long-distance moves and $5–$10 per hour for local moves.

Unexpected delays

Delays can happen for a variety of reasons, including transportation emergencies, bad weather, limited supplies and traffic. These issues may increase the time and money required. Prepare for delays by adding 25% more than your movers quote you to your moving budget and having a flexible schedule.

How to save money on moving costs

The following tips can save you money on moving in Lochearn.

Be communicative

Prevent unexpected charges the day of your move by communicating with your movers as much as possible. Tell them about additional items that weren’t included in the initial inventory you gave the movers.

While your movers can usually accommodate small items without a problem, larger pieces such as new appliances or furniture should be discussed before the move. Additional fees may apply for large items, and your movers won’t start the move until you’ve agreed to the cost.

Have a flexible schedule

Since reliable and budget-friendly movers are highly sought after, consider moving on a weekday or in the off-season to save some money while still getting your preferred relocation service.

Most people book moving companies from May through September. You may find less competition and lower moving rates if your timeline is flexible and you can schedule your move outside of those months.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

There are several alternatives if you can't find a cost - effective moving provider that meets your needs.

While you can move on your own, weigh the amount of labor required and the following costs:

• Packing supplies
• Moving truck rental
• Fuel

Getting help from family, friends or neighbors for loading and unloading large or heavy items such as furniture can make your move quicker and easier. Professional movers are a worthwhile investment if you lack the time or support to commit to moving yourself.

Another alternative is to find movers on service marketplaces such as Fiverr or Thumbtack. While hiring hourly help can cost less, these gig workers may not have proper licensing or insurance.

FAQ about moving in Lochearn

What’s full-service moving?

When you choose full-service moving, your hired movers will tackle the entire moving process. This includes supplying packing materials, packing your belongings, transporting them to the new location and unpacking them.

Standard moving services are cheaper than full-service moving, as they typically only include loading and moving your belongings. However, full-service moving can be worth it when you take into account the time, labor and packing supplies you'll save. Additionally, full-service moving can get you better insurance coverage, as self-packed goods are typically only protected up to 60 cents per dollar, and it can be challenging to get a claim accepted for self-packed damaged goods.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

All legitimate moving companies will show proof of registration on their fleet vehicles, as well as on paperwork like quotes and agreements. If you're arranging an interstate move, verify the company's USDOT and MC numbers on the official FMCSA website. Moving companies in Maryland are also required to have a license from the Maryland Department of Labor.

How does moving insurance work?

Check what insurance policies your movers provide. All companies should offer released-value coverage, which covers items at 60 cents per pound per item. Also consider full-value protection coverage if you're moving high-worth goods — just understand that these plans cost extra.

When is the best time of year to move?

The warmer months — May through September — are the prime moving time in the U.S., which creates considerably increased demand and significantly higher rates across the country for moves of all types. Understandably, this may steer you away from a summer move due to the higher cost.

We advise moving in the springtime or early autumn so that you have optimal weather conditions and more affordable pricing for services.

What things should I leave to the movers, and what should I transport myself?

To be safe, keep important financial records, keepsakes and identification documents in your personal car. We also recommend keeping valuable technology with you while moving.

Many moving companies limit insurance coverage for expensive items, such as jewelry and heirlooms. If you're concerned about potential loss or damage, pack those invaluable or irreplaceable possessions in your own car.

Most movers refuse to transport certain items, including these:

• Plants
• Compressed tanks or gas
• Perishable foods and produce
• Toxic chemicals or cleaners
• Flammable chemicals of any kind
• Batteries
• Fertilizers
• Aerosols
• Fuel sources

Our methodology for selecting moving companies

The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.

We review national moving providers against our full moving methodology. We score movers based on reputation and customer experience, service availability, cost and pricing practices, insurance options, customer service and communication.