10 best movers in Silver Spring, Maryland

International Van Lines is the best long-distance moving company for relocating out of Maryland. Use the filters below to find other movers for a local move in the Silver Spring area.

Long-distance movers in Silver Spring

A long-distance move is when you relocate over 50 miles away or move to a different state. If you're crossing state lines, you should be especially cautious that the mover you choose has the proper federal licensing. Interstate movers must have United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. To look up a carrier's licensing status, you can input the MC number, USDOT number or mover's name into the FMCSA's database.

The experienced long-distance moving services below have an active license. They can help get you and your belongings safely and efficiently across state lines.

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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?

The average hourly moving rate for moving within or out of Silver Spring is greater than the national average, making it a fairly expensive process. This makes sense considering the cost of living in Silver Spring is above 96.5% of the country.

Moving expenses add up quickly based on what services you need. Here are some typical moving costs:

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

These additional considerations can add even more to your total cost:

Transporting specialty items

When hiring professional movers, you may have to pay more for moving breakable, valuable or very bulky items. These items typically are more expensive to move:

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

Ask potential movers whether they move these items and if so, how much they charge.

Tipping your movers

Tipping your movers isn’t required, but it’s a common practice 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 various reasons, including transportation emergencies, limited supplies, bad weather and traffic. These issues may add to the duration and cost of your move. Be prepared for delays by allocating 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 reduce your moving costs in Silver Spring.

Be communicative

To avoid unexpected charges on your moving day, maintain open communication with your movers, especially about items you add to your inventory after getting a quote from the movers.

For example, your movers can usually add small items to the truck without a problem, but large items — like new appliances or furniture — need to be discussed beforehand. Additional fees may apply for these items, and your movers won’t begin the move until you’ve agreed to the charges.

Have a flexible schedule

Moving in the off-season or during the week can reduce costs and ensure you book the movers you want.

Most people schedule moves between May and September. Consider moving outside of those months if you have a flexible schedule, as there may be less competition or lower moving rates.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

Consider an alternative if you can't find a cheap that works for you.

One alternative is moving on your own. Consider the amount of labor required and the following costs when deciding between a moving company and moving by yourself:

• Moving truck rental
• Fuel
• Packing supplies

You may also need to ask family, friends or neighbors for help loading and unloading heavy items such as furniture. Movers are worth the cost if you don't have the time or anyone who can help you move.

Another option is to find movers on service marketplaces such as Thumbtack or Fiverr. While hiring hourly help can be more cost-effective, these freelance service providers may not have proper licensing or insurance.

FAQ about moving in Silver Spring

What’s full-service moving?

Full-service moving is when your movers tackle the entire moving process for you. They supply packing materials, pack your belongings, transport them and unpack them.

Standard moving services cost less than full-service moving, as they typically only include loading and transporting your belongings. However, full-service moving can be a justifiable expense when you take into account the time, labor and packing materials you'll save. Full-service moving may also provide better insurance coverage. Self-packed items are typically only covered for up to 60 cents per dollar, and damage claims for these items can be difficult to get approved.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

All legitimate moving businesses will show proof of registration on their fleet vehicles, as well as on paperwork like quotes and agreements. If you're planning 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?

Approximate the full worth of your belongings to accurately choose the ideal insurance policy. All movers should offer released-value coverage, which pays 60 cents per pound per item. If you're moving high-value items, inquire about your mover's full-value protection policies. Also consider full-value protection coverage if you're moving valuable goods — just be aware that these plans cost extra.

When is the best time of year to move?

The peak time to move falls during May to September, leading to notably higher demand and pricing for moves both large and small. The high summer rates could understandably dissuade you from moving at that time of year.

We suggest scheduling your move in the spring or early fall months to take advantage of pleasant weather and lower costs for moving 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 own car. We also recommend keeping valuable technology with you while moving.

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

Most movers refuse to transport certain items, including these:

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

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.