How to Choose the Best Local Mover in Germantown
You should consider several key factors when choosing a mover. These are some things to look out for when hiring movers in Germantown.
Determine Your Budget
A local move costs between $62 and $99 per hour. Based on this, a standard two-bedroom move costs around $4,395 overall. Factors that contribute to your actual cost include your home size, the season, move distance, and any additional tasks you need done.
You should obtain quotes from a minimum of three movers in your area. Request written estimates that outline the total cost, including the hourly rate or flat fee. Keep your mover's estimate and compare it to the final cost to ensure fair pricing.
Read Customer Reviews
Good customer feedback is necessary for all moving companies. Take the time to read customer reviews on sites like Google Reviews, Yelp, Trustpilot, the Better Business Bureau, and social media to identify movers with excellent customer service.
Ensure Proper Licensing
Moving companies in Germantown must follow different licensing requirements depending on their service area. If you're only moving intrastate, your mover does not need state licensure.
The requirements are a bit different if you're moving to or from another state. In this case, choose a mover 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 check a company's registration status on the FMCSA’s mover registration search tool.
Services
Assess whether your chosen mover provides the specific services you need when requesting quotes. Conduct an inventory of your home before getting quotes and make a list of any additional services that might be necessary to ensure accurate pricing. Tell your moving company representative regarding any special conditions or needs to determine if the company can provide satisfactory service.
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
Ensure that your moving company is aware of any special services you need while going through the quote process. Services that can lead to higher pricing include:
- Crating for art or antiques
- Extra flights of stairs
- Long carries
- Packing
- Piano moving
- Storage
- Unpacking
- Vehicle shipping
Tips To Consider When Moving in Germantown, MD
Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind when relocating to, from, or within Germantown.
Schedule an Early Move
Germantown traffic during the morning and evening rush hours is notoriously hectic. Navigating gridlock in a moving truck is even more challenging than with a standard personal-use vehicle. Movers stuck in traffic will typically lead to higher costs if they charge by the hour. We recommend scheduling before morning rush hour, which makes sure the movers beat the traffic and finish the move before evening.
Avoid Busy Season
Moving season is the busiest between May and September. In Germantown, this time overlaps with hot summer weather, which can worsen your moving experience. By planning and booking at least eight weeks before your move, you should be able to lock in 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 movers won't move items that haven't been packed by your scheduled moving time. 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 some extra boxes with them for last-minute packing, but you shouldn’t count on it.
How Much do Movers Cost in Germantown, MD
Movers in Germantown cost $2,694 on average for moves less than 250 miles. It can cost up to $7,849 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 | $2,694 | $3,407 | $7,849 |
250-999 miles | $3,310 | $4,065 | $11,257 |
1,000-2,499 miles | $3,357 | $4,633 | $11,913 |
2,500+ miles | $3,322 | $5,715 | $14,085 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Moving in Germantown
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