10 best movers in Bel Air South, Maryland

The best long-distance mover for relocating out of Maryland is International Van Lines. For a local move around Bel Air South, use the filters below to find other local companies for your move.

Long-distance movers in Bel Air South

A long-distance move is when you relocate to a different state or more than 50 miles away. Hiring a mover with the necessary federal licensing is crucial if you're moving across state lines. Interstate movers must have United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. To confirm a carrier's licensing status, you can input the MC number, USDOT number or mover's name into the FMCSA's database.

We’ve verified that the long-distance moving services below have an active license. These reliable and experienced movers can help get you and your belongings safely and smoothly across state lines.

Featured

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

GET ESTIMATE

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

GET ESTIMATE

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

GET ESTIMATE

Why is moving so expensive?

The average hourly moving rate for moving within or out of Bel Air South is greater than the national average, making itfairly costly. This makes sense considering the cost of living in Bel Air South is higher than 89.1% of the country.

Moving costs add up quickly, as there are numerous factors involved. The following are common moving expenses:

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

These additional considerations can bring up the cost of your total:

Transporting specialty items

Moving companies may charge more to move valuable, oversized or fragile items. Some items that can be more expensive to move include the following:

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

Ask potential movers whether they move these items and if so, whether they charge additional fees.

Tipping your movers

Tipping your movers is optional, but it’s common if your movers handled your belongings with care or made your move stress - free. 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 bad weather, limited supplies, transportation emergencies and traffic. These issues may add to the time and money required. Be prepared for delays by adding 25% more than your movers quote you to your budget and having a flexible schedule.

How to save money on moving costs

Keeping the following tips in mind can save you money on moving in Bel Air South.

Be communicative

To prevent unexpected charges on your moving day, be communicative with your movers, especially about items you add to your inventory after getting a quote from the movers.

For example, small items can usually be added to the truck without a problem, but large items — like new appliances or furniture — need to be discussed beforehand. The movers may need to adjust their quote for these item and get your consent to these fees before starting the move.

Have a flexible schedule

Dependable, cost-effective movers are in high demand. Consider moving in the off-season or on a weekday to save some money and still reserve your preferred relocation service.

Peak moving season is from May through September. If you have a flexible timeline, consider moving outside of those months, as there won’t be as much competition or as high of moving rates.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

If you can’t find a cheap mover that works for you, there are alternative routes you can take.

You can move yourself, but consider the following costs along with the labor required:

• Fuel
• Moving truck rental
• Packing supplies

You may also need to get help from family, friends or neighbors for loading and unloading bulky items such as furniture. Professional movers are a worthwhile investment if you don’t have the time or support to commit to self-moving.

You can also hire movers on service marketplaces such as Fiverr or Thumbtack. While hiring hourly help can be more affordable, these freelance service providers may not have the necessary licensing or insurance.

FAQ about moving in Bel Air South

What’s full-service moving?

Hiring full-service movers means they will handle the entire moving process. They provide packing supplies, pack your belongings, transport them and unpack 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 consider the time, labor and packing supplies you'll save. Additionally, full-service moving can offer more comprehensive insurance coverage, as self-packed goods are generally only protected up to 60 cents per dollar, and it can be difficult to get a claim accepted for self-packed damaged items.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

Legitimate moving companies will present proof of registration on all trucks, documents and facilities. Interstate moves mandate USDOT and MC numbers, so be sure to inspect their registration thoroughly before hiring movers by visiting 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?

See what insurance policies your movers provide. All movers will offer released-value coverage, which protects your goods at a rate of 60 cents per pound per item. Purchasing this additional coverage will cost more, but may be worth it if you're moving costly or rare items.

When is the best time of year to move?

The peak moving time spans from May to September, leading to notably higher demand and pricing for moves both big and small. The high summer rates could understandably deter you from moving at that time of year.

We recommend moving in the spring or early fall seasons when you can expect more favorable weather and lower costs.

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

For peace of mind, move items like identification documents, financial records and valuable keepsakes in your own car. Similarly, load up your vehicle with any expensive electronics that you wouldn't want lost or damaged.

Many moving companies cap insurance coverage for high-value items, such as jewelry and heirlooms. If you're concerned about possible loss or damage, keep those invaluable or irreplaceable belongings in your own car.

There are certain goods and materials prohibited for transportation by movers. These include the following:

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

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.