How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Bowie
Some factors you should consider when looking for a moving company include customer reviews, cost, licensing, and services offered.
Determine Your Budget
According to our research, the average local mover in Bowie costs $98 per hour. The typical cost overall is $4,268 for two-bedroom homes. Your actual cost will depend on move distance, any additional tasks you need your movers to handle, the season, and your home size.
You should obtain quotes from at least three reputable movers in your area. Ask for written estimates that break down the total cost, including the hourly rate or flat fee. Comparing the estimate provided by your moving company to the final cost after the move helps ensure fair pricing.
Read Customer Reviews
Moving companies depend on good customer reviews. You can identify moving companies that provide good customer service by reading reviews on platforms like Google Reviews, the Better Business Bureau, Yelp, Trustpilot, and social media.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Bowie must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you are making a local move that's purely within Maryland, your mover does not need a state license.
The requirements change if you're moving to or from another state. In this case, choose a company licensed with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). The team should also carry active United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. You can find a company's registration status on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.
Services
Assess whether the mover offers the services you need during the quote process. Make a list of any basic or add-on services you may require and take a comprehensive inventory of your home before seeking quotes. Notify the moving company about any special conditions or needs to assess if the company is a good fit.
Types of Moving Services
Full-service movers will include the following services in the base price for basic moves:
- Basic wrapping materials for furniture protection
- Loading and unloading
- Released liability coverage for loss or damage
Make sure that your moving company is informed of any special services you need while going through the quote process. Increased pricing may apply for these services:
- Crating for art or antiques
- Extra flights of stairs
- Long carries
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Storage
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Tips To Consider When Moving in Bowie, MD
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when moving in Bowie.
Schedule an Early Move
The morning and evening rush hours in Bowie are widely known for their extreme traffic congestion. Movers stuck in traffic can also lead to higher costs when charged an hourly rate. Planning your move for the early morning ensures that your movers arrive before traffic peaks and head to your new home in the afternoon when traffic is less congested.
Avoid Busy Season
May to September marks the peak moving season and Bowie's hottest time of the year. Moving at this time can slow or worsen your move, especially if you begin your search for a moving company too close to your move. The high demand could make it more difficult to secure your desired mover. If you plan far enough in advance, you should be able to schedule with the mover you want regardless of the month. However, your movers may be hampered by the heat.
Pack in Advance
We suggest you start packing around six weeks before your move to prevent rushing to pack on your moving day. Spending time packing a couple boxes each day can make the process less overwhelming. Most moving companies won't transport items that haven't been packed when your move starts.
How Much do Movers Cost in Bowie, MD
Movers in Bowie 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 Bowie
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