How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Baltimore
Make an informed choice by taking the following factors into consideration when deciding on a mover in Baltimore.
Determine Your Budget
The average hourly rate for local movers in Baltimore is $42. A two-bedroom move in the area costs around $4,268 in total. Your actual cost will depend on your home size, any additional tasks you need your movers to handle, move distance, and the season.
You should obtain quotes from at least three reputable movers in your area. Ask for written estimates that detail the total cost, including the hourly rate or flat fee. Comparing the estimate provided by your mover to the final cost after the move helps ensure fair pricing is maintained.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer reviews hold significant value when looking for a mover. Take time to read customer reviews on websites such as Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, social media, and Yelp to identify movers that prioritize positive customer experiences.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Baltimore must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you are moving from one Maryland city to another, your mover does not need any state-level credentials.
If you're moving across state lines, the regulations are different. Interstate moving companies must be licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and must carry active United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. You can use these numbers to look up a moverโs registration status and complaint history on the FMCSAโs mover registration search tool.
Services
Ask if the mover you chose can deliver the services that align with your expectations when requesting quotes. Conduct a thorough inventory of your home before requesting quotes and note down any essential or additional services you might require. Inform the moving company if you have any particular conditions or needs to determine whether the company is a good fit.
Types of Moving Services
Full-service movers include the following basic services as a part of their base price:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
When seeking a quote from your moving company, discuss any extra services you need. These services may result in increased pricing for your move:
- Crating for art or antiques
- Extra flights of stairs
- Long carries
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Storage
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Tips To Consider When Moving in Baltimore, MD
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when relocating to, from, or within Baltimore.
Schedule an Early Move
The morning and evening rush hours in Baltimore are widely known for their extreme traffic congestion. Movers stuck in traffic can also lead to higher costs when charged an hourly rate. You can prevent this by scheduling your move a few hours before or after morning rush hour.
Avoid Busy Season
May to September marks the busiest moving season and Baltimore's hottest time of the year. Moving at this time can slow or worsen your move, particularly if you start searching for a mover too late. The increased demand could lead to limited availability with your desired mover. By planning and booking at least eight weeks before your move, you should be able to secure the moving company you want. However, keep in mind the possibility that the hot weather could make the move more difficult for your movers.
Pack in Advance
Most moving companies approach same-day packing requests similarly. In many cases, movers will not move loose items that havenโt been packed by the time your move is scheduled to start. You should start packing around six weeks before your move. Pack a few boxes each day to avoid rushing when move day comes. Your movers may have a few spare boxes with them for last-minute packing, but you shouldnโt depend on it.
How Much do Movers Cost in Baltimore, MD
Movers in Baltimore cost $2,650 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $7,312 to move a larger 4 bedroom house the same distance. See the chart below for more moving estimates, and contact a moving company for a more accurate quote specific to your situation.
Distance | Studio-1 Bedroom | 2-3 Bedroom | 4+ Bedroom |
---|---|---|---|
Less than 250 miles | $2,650 | $3,167 | $7,312 |
250-999 miles | $3,264 | $3,799 | $10,773 |
1,000-2,499 miles | $3,304 | $4,354 | $11,200 |
2,500+ miles | $3,229 | $5,424 | $13,346 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Baltimore
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