Navigating the labyrinth of moving companies in Maryland can be daunting. Having lived on four continents, I consider myself a seasoned mover, and in this guide, I’ll cut through the clutter to reveal the best movers in the Old Line State.
4.5
One month of free storage included with your move
Provides moves in all 50 states
Offers air & ocean freighting
4.0
Flat rate pricing for all moves
Offers price matching
Expedited moves between big cities
4.2
Top-notch packing services
Nationwide partner network
Comprehensive moving calculator
With so many options out there — from local mom and pops to global mammoths — it’s important to consider factors such as carrier/broker status, reputation, affordability, and service quality. I’ve reviewed the best moving companies in Maryland, and I hope you’ll walk away with the insight you need to choose a mover that will handle your belongings with care and make your move a seamless experience.
Top 5 Maryland Moving Companies
- JK Moving Services is my top choice for its excellent a la carte customization, unique add-ons, in-house financing, and commitment to sustainability. JK Moving offers Maryland customers 0% same-as-cash rates, and in my opinion, its customization options justify the higher prices. However, if you’re looking for an overall cheaper alternative, I recommend International Van Lines.
- If you’re open to doing some or most of the work yourself, I recommend Allied Van Lines. In Maryland, this provider offers a container option as well as a fragile-only option, which is ideal for the DIYers out there. If Allied isn’t your cup of tea, be sure to check out North American Van Lines, as the company also offers a container option.
- It’s important to know that whether a provider is a carrier, a broker, or both, as this affects service offerings and overall moving experience. With a carrier, you’ll have more control over your move, but your options may be limited in terms of services and destinations. Brokers have access to more routes and areas, but they outsource moves to partners that may or may not uphold their quality and values.
Read our full Moving Methodology for more details.
My Expert Recommendation
Personally, I really like JK Moving Services. It does have a higher price point than the rest, but it’s justified by its exceptional commitment to customizing each move, along with its efforts to be eco-friendly. However, each moving company included in this review offers its own unique benefits. I recommend Allied Van Lines for its DIY options, North American Van Lines for flat-rate pricing, International Van Lines for overseas moving, and Interstate Moving & Relocation Group for broker services.
Maryland Moving Companies I Didn’t Include
Some well-rated companies I didn’t include in this review are Safeway Moving, Moving APT, and Mayflower Moving. They received similar overall ratings as the companies I did include, but I omitted them to offer a variety of brokers/carriers and offerings in the top 5.
These companies have some downsides, which is why I excluded them from my list. Safeway is more expensive and doesn’t facilitate local moves in Maryland. Moving APT has a confusing booking process, and its service quality depends on local availability. Mayflower is a broker, and its reviews are across the board.
Compare The Highest Rated Moving Companies In Maryland
| Company | Rating | BBB Rating | Cost | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
A |
$1,400–$9,200 |
VISIT SITE | |
|
A+ |
$1,700–$13,800 |
VISIT SITE | |
|
B |
$1,250 – $8,500 |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
C |
$3,000–$11,200 |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
A+ |
$1,200–$11,250 |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
B |
$1,200–$11,250 |
VISIT SITE | |
 |
A+ |
$600–$5,100 |
VISIT SITE | |
 JK Moving Services |
A+ |
$3,000–$6,000 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of publication.
Our Reviews of the Best Moving Companies in Maryland
International Van Lines
4.5
Our Rating
International Van Lines (IVL) serves all 50 states and has remained one of the largest, most reliable moving companies in the U.S. for over 20 years. This broker/carrier also has a strong global presence, serving over 140 countries.
IVL is a reliable choice if you’re considering outsourcing your entire international, cross-country, or long-distance move. It’s affordable, with plenty of add-ons and a very efficient quoting process. IVL doesn’t offer DIY moving options, so it’s not the best fit if you’re hoping to save money by doing some of the work yourself.
Consistently ranking among our top long-distance moving companies, International Van Lines is a popular choice for people moving across the country or overseas who are looking for a comprehensive, affordable, full-service option. It offers a wide variety of add-on services, air and ocean freight, short and long-term storage, and several options for insurance coverage.
Through International’s stellar customer service, I was able to get a binding estimate within just a few hours via phone and email. For comparison, Interstate Moving & Relocation Group (IMRG) took about a week to get me a quote, and the rest were unable to give me a customized quote without an on-site survey. For me, it’s important to be able to gather quotes efficiently to compare providers and make an educated choice.
IVL offers Maryland customers all-risk insurance (covering any event not specifically excluded in the policy) and named-perils insurance (covering only events listed) in addition to its two standard options.
The main drawback of International Van Lines is that it’s both a broker and a carrier. Most of its negative reviews come from customers whose moves were outsourced to smaller, local, less experienced companies, resulting in inconsistent service quality. Also, IVL doesn’t offer its own GPS tracking.
Another thing to note is that while IVL is a solid choice for full-service moves, the company lacks service options for DIY moving. Unlike certain movers — like Allied Van Lines — IVL doesn’t offer a budget-friendly container service option for people who don’t mind doing a bit of leg work to save money. In addition, IVL requires a 25% deposit, which may not be ideal for Maryland homeowners looking to pay after services have been rendered.
International Van Lines has a long history and strong reputation in the industry, making it a quality option if you’re outsourcing your entire moving process or moving overseas. It’s hard to beat this company’s commitment to both domestic and international moves. Coming from someone who has lived in many countries across the world, I would definitely consider trusting IVL with my next full-service international move. This is especially true if I was planning a military or government-related move from the Maryland area, as this is something IVL is well versed in. This mover also has federal maritime and air freight licenses.
If you’re hoping for flexibility, IVL is a good contender, as it offers a full deposit refund if you cancel up to 48 hours before your scheduled move. This stands out significantly when compared to movers like Interstate Moving & Relocation Group, which only offers deposit refunds within 72 hours of booking.
If you’re anything like me, being able to follow your shipment throughout Maryland and beyond provides peace of mind, so it’s important to ask if tracking is possible through a third party. If not — and if that’s a dealbreaker for you — consider another company on our list (except Interstate Moving & Relocation Group, which also doesn’t offer GPS tracking). If you’re moving domestically and you’re happy to do some of the work yourself, you’re better off considering a company like Allied Van Lines, which offers a great budget-friendly container service option.
International Van Lines offers a comprehensive range of services at reasonable prices, including professional packing assistance — packing, loading, unloading, and unpacking your boxes — as well as disassembly and reassembly of basic furniture. This carrier also offers long- and short-term storage options for an extra fee but always includes one month of free storage with every full-service move. IVL also offers several insurance options but recommends all-risk insurance to most customers, especially if you’re opting for professional packing services, as this is their most comprehensive coverage option.
These are the services that IVL offers:
| Service | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Local Moving | Yes |
| Long Distance/Interstate Moving | Yes |
| International Moving | Yes |
| Packing and Unpacking | Yes |
| Loading and Unloading | Yes |
| Storage Services | Yes |
Cost
As with most moving companies, the cost of moving with International Van Lines varies depending on distance, move size, and additional services. Compared to higher-end movers like JK Moving Services, International is definitely one of the more affordable moving options. IVL offers an online pricing tool to estimate the cost of your move, but it typically gives the same price range regardless of distance and move size.
Your best bet is to call customer service and give them details about your move, either over the phone or via email. IVL does charge a 25% deposit, which is fully refundable if you cancel up to 48 hours before your scheduled move.
For my 680-mile move between Baltimore, MD, and Atlanta, GA, the quote I got from an IVL representative in my email (following a phone conversation) was as follows:
Transportation without packing: $3,773
Transportation with packing: $4,359
Home size: 2 Bedrooms, 1.5 Bath, 1,500 square feet
Estimated move size: 4100 lbs
Both options include 30 days of storage and basic liability.
Editor’s Note: The cost data provided in this article is based on Today’s Homeowner’s standardized sample moving scenario from Baltimore to Atlanta for a single-family home, with a move date set eight weeks away. Please be aware that these estimates may vary depending on factors, such as additional services required and market fluctuations. The cost data presented was accurate at the time of writing.
Available Discounts
My International Van Lines representative let me know over the phone that their “off season” ends in mid-March, so you’ll save money by locking in prices before then — even if your moving date is a few months away or undetermined. You can change your move date after locking in a price, so giving a placeholder date and adjusting later is possible without affecting your price. Like many moving companies, IVL offers seniors a 15% discount. Any other promotional discounts are only available over the phone, so make sure to call IVL directly.
For full-service moves, International Van Lines offers custom crating for fragile and high-value items. Crews use basic protective materials at no extra charge but expect to pay $250 to $400 for items packed in custom crates. IVL offers piano moving for an average of $150 to $350, depending on the size and type of piano. This provider even offers cleaning as part of its wide range of services.
If you’re undertaking a military, diplomatic, or corporate relocation from anywhere around the D.C. area (including Maryland), you can trust IVL to be an experienced and dependable partner. Licensed and insured with the FMCSA as a Government Military Relocation Mover, IVL has experience facilitating moves in more than 150 countries and consistently tops our list of best companies for military moves.
International offers its customers all-risk insurance (covering any event not specifically excluded in the policy) and named-perils insurance (covering only events listed), in addition to the two standard options required by law.
| Customization Options | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Assembly/ Disassembly | Yes |
| Sells Packing Materials | Yes |
| Offers Valuation Coverage | Yes |
| Piano Moving | Yes |
| Car Shipping | Yes |
| Special Item/ Antique Moving | Yes |
| Custom Crating | Yes |
| Junk Removal | Yes |
| Home Staging | No |
We gave International Van Lines a perfect reputation score because customer reviews are overwhelmingly positive, and the provider has a very strong complaints response rate. As with any carrier that also brokers out moves, there are negative reviews as well — mostly from people who had their move outsourced and were unhappy with the work of the moving partner.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | A / 3.5 | 169 |
| Trustpilot | 4.4 | 57 |
| 3.7 | 704 | |
| Yelp | 1.7 | 540 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of writing.
Most Common Praise for International Van Lines
IVL’s reputation as one of the best movers for customer service is reflected in the sheer number of positive reviews on sites like Google and Yelp. These reviews highlight excellent communication, careful handling of possessions, and transparent pricing.
Most Common Criticism for International Van Lines
The most common complaint is from reviewers stating that their moves were outsourced to local moving companies that didn’t uphold IVL’s values and quality standards. Brokering out moves isn’t uncommon among larger moving companies, but this risk of inconsistency in service quality is definitely something to keep in mind. Additionally, several reviews claim this carrier charged them extra fees even after giving a binding estimate.
International Van Lines received an average to low score on transparency, with points won for factors like available sample pricing, binding estimates, and openness about add-on service costs. IVL loses points mainly for not openly disclosing to customers whether their move will be carried out by IVL directly or by another carrier.
Interstate Moving & Relocation Group
4.2
Our Rating
Interstate Moving and Relocation Group (IMRG) is a full-service moving brokerage with 25 years of experience. In Maryland, IMRG offers local and long-distance moving services by using a screening process to match customers to local moving companies. A wide range of services, a long track record of industry success, and a large network of moving partners make this a reliable option if you’ve decided that you want to go with a broker-only company (it’s the only one on this list). Two factors to keep in mind are IMRG’s strict cancellation policy and lack of GPS tracking.
Like International Van Lines, IMRG is a solid company to consider for active-duty military, as the provider has a proven history of military relocations and a large network of partners with appropriate clearance.
Interstate Moving does an excellent job breaking down the moving process for customers through online resources and a library of state-to-state moving guides on their website. The provider also offers third-party arbitration (an alternative to litigation) in case of a dispute. I’m happy to see it offered, as it’s a much faster and more cost-efficient way to solve issues concerning loss and damage claims.
IMRG’s online cost calculator is an efficient way to get a rough estimate of moving costs along with ideas for making your move more affordable, such as securing a parking spot for your movers beforehand or requesting several smaller trucks instead of a big one so movers can get closer to your door. Compared to other online tools, IMRG’s calculator produces an accurate cost estimate.
With any broker, the quality of service can be inconsistent due to outsourcing moves to third-party moving companies. This is reflected by Interstate Moving’s mixed reviews on Google and Yelp, with several customers referencing issues with the third-party partners that IMRG selected for their moves.
IMRG has a strict cancellation policy and won’t refund your deposit and booking fee more than 72 hours after booking. If you cancel within 72 hours, you will get a refund but will still have to pay the 4% cancellation fee. The company cites scheduling and routing demands as the primary reasons.
Like International Van Lines, IMRG doesn’t offer in-house GPS tracking.
With an extensive network of partners and a wide selection of special services, Interstate is one of the best choices available if you’re considering trusting a broker with your move. The accurate cost estimator is a big plus, and if you request an in-home survey of your inventory and are very clear about your needs before the move, it can be a solid choice. Operating exclusively as a broker, Interstate matches you with the moving partner best suited to the job. In its network, this provider can quickly find movers capable of handling a wide range of specialty services.
That said, the quality of service can be inconsistent compared to a carrier/broker or a carrier, and while this isn’t uncommon, it’s definitely something to keep in mind. If you’re hesitant to trust a third-party company with your move or intimidated by an inflexible cancellation policy, IMRG probably isn’t the best choice for you. The strict cancellation policy stands in stark contrast to International Van Lines, which offers a full refund up to 48 hours before your scheduled move. If you’re looking for flexibility, I would recommend International Van Lines.
If you’re considering using IMRG, be sure to secure GPS tracking — if possible — through the moving partner responsible for handling your shipment.
Interstate Moving is a solid choice if your move is on the smaller side, especially if you’re willing to do some of the work yourself. IMRG partners with self-service company PODS to bring smaller storage containers into areas that moving trucks might not be able to access. You load and unload the container yourself and let IMRG handle transportation to your destination. This is a cost-efficient option where you retain most of the control.
Another service where IMRG stands out is corporate and military relocation. If you’re undertaking the latter, I suggest you compare this company to International Van Lines, another great military mover. In addition to a focus on confidentiality, military-grade storage solutions, and on-time delivery by commercial partners, IMRG claims a 98% on-time rate for delivering shipments for corporate moves, which can be really beneficial for Maryland moves. Whether you’re moving offices across the street or from Baltimore to D.C., a corporate move impacts your employees and business in general, so it’s vital to have a trusted partner to reduce the stress.
Interstate offers the following services:
| Availability (Yes or No) | Service |
| Yes | Local Moving |
| Yes | Long Distance/Interstate Moving |
| Yes | International Moving |
| Yes | Packing and Unpacking |
| Yes | Loading and Unloading |
| Yes | Storage Services |
Cost
Like International Van Lines, Interstate Moving will provide a binding estimate, but it’s still best to request an in-home consultation for clear expectations and a more accurate evaluation. If I were to use IMRG for my move, I’d likely opt for self-packing and take advantage of their container service. This would cost me a fraction of professional moving services and involve less stress and work than renting a truck myself.
It’s possible to get a quote through IMRG’s website, but you have to fill out a pretty long checklist of furniture and other items included in your move, as well as any specialty services you need. Note that IMRG may charge a deposit, depending on which company within its network it selects for you. You’ll see the word tariff in my quote. In moving quotes, this word simply means the menu of services selected and the prices agreed upon for those services. You’ll see a whopping total tariff discount of 55%, which wasn’t discussed during my call with the IMRG rep. I didn’t receive clarity about why I received this, but I definitely appreciated it.
The quote my IMRG representative emailed me after two phone conversations was as follows:
Total Tariff: $4531.00
- Total Tariff Discount: – $2502.40 (55%)
- Basic Estimate Price: $2028.60
- Fuel Surcharge: $304.29
- Full Packing Service: $724.50
- Full Unpacking Service: $362.25
- Binding Estimate Fee: $2655.28
- Online Discount: – $1500.00
- Basic Valuation Protection: $0.00
- Total Move Estimate: $4574.92
- Home size: 2 Bedrooms, 1.5 Bath, 1,500 square feet
Estimated move size: 4100 lbs
Editor’s Note: The cost data provided in this article is based on Today’s Homeowner’s standardized sample moving scenario from Baltimore to Atlanta for a single-family home, with a move date set 8 weeks away. Please be aware that these estimates may vary depending on factors such as additional services required and market fluctuations. The cost data presented was accurate at the time of writing.Available Discounts
According to my Interstate representative, Memorial Day through Labor Day is the peak season for them (and for moving companies in general). This means higher rates, fewer options, and less overall flexibility. The first and last days of any month, as well as national holidays, are also considered “peak days.” If you’re able to plan far ahead, you can save a lot by moving in late fall. Wednesdays are cheapest days for a move.
Booking through IMRG’s toll-free number guarantees a flat $500 discount, but since that’s the only way to book, it just feels like a fake discount. My quote included a $1,500 “online discount” as well as the previously mentioned significant “total tariff discount,” but the company isn’t transparent about what these really mean or why they offered them.
If you are an active-duty military member, IMRG provides special discounted rates for your move, but it’s not guaranteed that these are available from all of the company’s moving partners.
Interstate Moving offers most of the standard customization options, and is a good choice if you’re looking for a broker who can help you with specialty services, vehicle shipping, moving to a new military base, or moving military equipment. IMRG connects active-duty military with partners that have been approved by the Armed Forces.
Like the other providers on our list, IMRG offers basic liability coverage at $.60 per pound of goods. This provider also offers all-risk and total-loss insurance. All-risk covers individual items, and total loss applies if your entire shipment is destroyed, and both are based on estimated value, not weight.
| Customization Options | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Assembly/ Disassembly | Yes |
| Sells Packing Materials | Yes |
| Offers Valuation Coverage | Yes |
| Piano Moving | Yes |
| Car Shipping | Yes |
| Special Item/ Antique Moving | Yes |
| Custom Crating | Yes |
| Junk Removal | Yes |
| Home Staging | No |
Compared to smaller and newer brokerages, it’s easy to get a sense of Interstate’s reputation, thanks to the sheer quantity of online reviews available. But, the provider’s broker-only status also means that reviews commonly deal with the work of its local moving partners, not necessarily IMRG itself. Most complaints talk about carelessness and lack of reliability and communication from said partners, as well as unexpected demands for non-refundable deposits. IMRG has a decent complaints response rate, but like most other providers, it simply urges customers to reach out.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | B / 3.2 | 94 |
| Trustpilot | 2 | 29 |
| 3.5 | 1,075 | |
| Yelp | 2.2 | 80 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of writing.
Most Common Praise for Interstate Moving & Relocation Group
Common mentions in Interstate’s reviews are reasonable pricing and responsiveness of representatives. Many positive reviewers also point to the care, professionalism, and efficiency of the moving crews.
Most Common Criticism for Interstate Moving & Relocation Group
Most negative reviews mention poor customer support from IMRG and low-quality service from the partners responsible for the move. Some customers note that the broker didn’t deliver on promises made during the booking process. Nearly all of the one-star reviews mention movers breaking items and IMRG — being a broker — not taking any responsibility.
IMRG shares first place with Allied Van Lines for best transparency score. This is largely thanks to the fact that they disclose their status as a broker, offer binding estimates, and provide sample pricing and a quick quote feature online. However, quite a few reviews mention having their binding estimates changed by their third-party movers, mentioning hidden fees and inflated final costs. Additionally, they lost points for lacking transparency around discounts that remained unexpected and unexplained. Despite their flaws, IMRG’s score is strong, noting numerous mentions of reasonable prices and accurate estimates.
As a broker, it makes sense that Interstate doesn’t have an in-house GPS tracking system. I would personally want to be able to see where my things are, so it’s definitely worth asking an IMRG representative about the possibility of tracking.
JK Moving Services
4.2
Our Rating
Based in the greater Washington, D.C., area, JK Moving Services is a nationwide broker and carrier with 40+ years of experience assisting more than half a million clients across the U.S. and internationally. JK Moving has some of the best review ratings I’ve seen, along with an A+ rating on the Better Business Bureau. Its main selling point is the fully customizable moving service packages. It’s also one of the more eco-friendly moving choices out there.
I recommend JK if you’re someone who prioritizes sustainability and doesn’t mind paying extra for a luxury a la carte experience. I also recommend JK if you’re hoping to finance your move, as it’s one of few providers to offer financing, which allows customers to get 0% same-as-cash rates through a partnership with Enhancify.
If you have a lot of specialty moving needs and want to design your own service package while keeping close tabs on your belongings through GPS tracking, JK Moving Services will be a great choice. An impressive catalog of fully customizable services, coupled with a commitment to using the most advanced technology, makes JK Moving a dependable option whether you’re considering a local move within Maryland or to one of the 170+ countries this company serves.
JK Moving’s zero-waste efforts, boxless strategy with reusable crates, and in-house financing options, adds a commitment to sustainability and inclusivity that I haven’t seen in other providers. In addition, JK claims all of its movers are well-trained, background-checked, and regularly trained, and that’s a huge plus for me when I’m considering trusting a company with all of my belongings.
JK Moving is one of the few professional movers that offers financing on its moves. The company’s partnership with Enhancify allows customers to get rates as low as 0% same-as-cash — a rare perk for budget-minded consumers. What’s more, JK has stellar reviews across platforms, especially compared to other companies I’ve reviewed.
JK Moving Services doesn’t provide online quotes, which means you’ll have to speak with a representative to get an estimate for your move. This can be annoying, but it’s worth it with JK if customization is a priority and if you have room in your budget.
To maintain cross-country availability, JK uses third-party partners to carry out long-distance moves. As we’ve seen with other brokers, this can lead to inconsistent service quality and customer care.
JK Moving Services’ main selling point is its customizable service packages. I recommend this company if you’re a particularly discerning customer who wants the ability to craft your moving experiences from the ground up using an a la carte menu of services. JK Moving also offers a convenient mobile app for reviewing your estimate and moving forward with booking, as well as GPS tracking to help you keep tabs on your shipment. Additionally, JK uses an AI program called Yembo to get fast and accurate quotes through virtual AI survey technology. This is a great feature if you’re unable to book an on-site survey.
There are three groups of customers in Maryland that I would especially recommend JK Moving Services for — corporate movers, folks who prioritize sustainability, and those who don’t mind paying extra for a more luxury moving experience. Corporate moves are a bit of a specialty for JK, and this is great news for many customers in the area who may be looking for expert help in moving a government or law office, for example. Additionally, this provider’s eco-friendly approach — reusable crates and totes, as well as recycled moving blankets to work toward zero waste and reduce its carbon footprint — is very appealing to sustainability-minded customers in one of the greenest states in the country.
If you’re moving locally within the D.C. metro area, JK Moving is a reliable choice, thanks to their local expertise — their main offices are in D.C. and Gaithersburg, MD. However, if you’re planning a local residential move outside of this area, JK can’t help you, and you should instead look at Allied Van Lines, another top-rated company in this review.
If you want similar services for a lower price, I also recommend looking at Allied or International Van Lines, just remember that JK Moving Services offers the rare perk of financing, which could help offset your moving expenses.
JK Moving Services’ full-service package includes packing, loading, unloading, and unpacking assistance. This provider also offers partial packing services and sells packing supplies at its Virginia and Maryland locations. Outside of the added focus on customization and dedication to carbon cutback, JK Moving offers similar services to those of other companies included in this review. In my opinion, in terms of types of moves, it’s in corporate and commercial moving that this provider really shines, and the D.C. metro area (like Maryland) is the perfect place for this type of expertise. JK offers data archival, floor planning for new offices, IT removal, and much more. That’s why I especially recommend JK Moving if you’re looking for a trustworthy partner in Maryland to help you move a government office, law firm, or the like.
JK Moving offers two protection plans: carrier standard liability and replacement value. Standard liability is the same as with other carriers at $0.60 per pound of goods or 50 per item, whatever is less. Replacement value includes minimum coverage of $6 per pound or a $15,000 minimum.
JK partners with McCollister’s Auto Logistics to take care of domestic vehicle shipping.
This mover offers the following services to Maryland customers:
| Service | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Local Moving | Yes |
| Long Distance/Interstate Moving | Yes |
| International Moving | Yes |
| Packing and Unpacking | Yes |
| Loading and Unloading | Yes |
| Storage Services | Yes |
Cost
I called JK Moving Services and spoke to a representative who was able to give me a ballpark estimate. The rep told me that JK is unable to show sample prices online due to the way they fully customize each move. Below are the ballpark ranges for my 2-bedroom move from Baltimore, MD, to Atlanta, GA, in mid-April:
Transportation without packing: $6,500 to $7,500
Transportation with packing: $8,000 to $9,000
Moving distance: 680 miles
Editor’s Note: The cost data provided in this article is based on Today’s Homeowner’s standardized sample moving scenario from Baltimore to Atlanta for a single-family home, with a move date set 8 weeks away. Please be aware that these estimates may vary depending on factors such as additional services required and market fluctuations. The cost data presented was accurate at the time of writing.
Both options include basic furniture disassembly and reassembly, wrapping and padding, loading and unloading, and full-value protection. Note that this is a rough estimate, but it’s clear that it’s more expensive than most of the moving estimates in this review. In order to get a more accurate, binding quote, you’d need to schedule an on-site survey, which the coordinator said can be done within a day or two of calling. It’s important to note that JK charges a non-refundable $250 deposit.
Available Discounts
My JK Moving representative didn’t offer any discounts over the phone and didn’t give me much information other than saying that planning ahead and booking for a weekday move is the best bet if you’re trying to save. This is true for most moving companies.
As mentioned, JK Moving Services’ main selling point is its commitment to customizing each moving service package to the customer’s individual moving needs. I think this is an excellent strategy to appeal to an audience of more discerning customers who want a little more control over their moving experiences. In an a la carte menu of services, JK Moving offers the full range of standard customization options, as well as a wide variety of add-ons, including home staging. This provider also offers government moves and employee relocation, as well as a wide range of industry-specific commercial moves.
If you require special services for your move, like professional packing, custom crating, or junk removal, JK is a great choice. Experienced crews can provide excellent assistance, even for specialty items like vehicles, pianos, and antiques, along with additional protection for your peace of mind.
| Customization Options | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Assembly/ Disassembly | Yes |
| Sells Packing Materials | Yes |
| Offers Valuation Coverage | Yes |
| Piano Moving | Yes |
| Car Shipping | Yes |
| Special Item/ Antique Moving | Yes |
| Custom Crating | Yes |
| Junk Removal | Yes |
| Home Staging | Yes |
JK Moving Services is BBB-accredited, has a stellar reputation, and boasts some of the best overall review scores I’ve seen. It seems like customers often use review sites, specifically the BBB, to complain, but JK Moving actually has a strong 4.45 rating there, in contrast to other providers’ 1- or 2-point ratings. Positive reviews across platforms mention moving crews’ professionalism and punctuality, a testament to this provider’s rigorous hiring and training systems. Most of the negative reviews deal with issues concerning pricing, damage, and claims.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | A+ / 4.45 | 51 |
| Trustpilot | 3.6 | 1 |
| 4.5 | 1,317 | |
| Yelp | 3.5 | 375 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of writing.
Most Common Praise for JK Moving Services
Most positive reviews say their moves were smooth sailing, highlighting the friendliness and care of moving crews. Many positive reviews also mention representatives being communicative throughout the process and that pricing was accurate.
Most Common Criticism for JK Moving Services
The most common complaint is unreliable customer support. A few mention a lack of care after a positive quote experience. This isn’t surprising, seeing as JK Moving Services is also a broker, but it’s worth noting that there aren’t nearly as many negative reviews dealing with outsourced moves as with other brokers in this review.
Transparency is important for customers as it encourages accountability on the part of moving companies and their partners when it comes to everything from pricing to accessibility. We gave JK Moving Services a pretty low score on transparency. The provider scored points for openly disclosing broker status, offering online and phone booking, and a GPS tracking option. However, it lost points due to not listing additional fees, not offering quick quotes or binding estimates, and not making sample prices available online. That said, I do think JK’s lack of pricing transparency can — at least in part — be explained by its unparalleled commitment to customize each individual move.
Allied Van Lines
4.2
Our Rating
Allied Van Lines is a BBB-accredited moving company operating in all 50 states and working with representatives in more than 130 countries. Founded in 1928, it’s one of the oldest moving companies in the U.S. Allied offers a wide range of services at industry-standard pricing. This provider shines in vehicle shipping, thanks to the variety of services provided. They can move motorcycles, yachts, jet skis, you name it.
Allied is my top choice if you’re looking for a trusted company to transport your vehicle, whether on its own or as part of a move. In addition to superb vehicle shipping, Allied also offers an express storage container option and a fragile-only option — and it’s also a solid pick for DIY movers. The provider also works with the Salvation Army to help turn your unwanted belongings into someone else’s treasures.
I really like that Allied Van Lines offers in-house vehicle shipping services because most moving companies outsource them. With Allied, you’re also able to bundle your vehicle shipping with other full-service moving options in-house to save money. And, as part of one of the world’s largest moving networks (SIRVA, the same parent company as North American Van Lines), Allied can provide a nearly unbeatable service range and area.
Allied is a dependable option if you’re willing to do some or most of the work on your move yourself, as this provider offers several options, including container and fragile-only services. Additionally, I’ll give bonus points to any mover that shows a commitment to sustainability. Allied has partnered with the Salvation Army to make donating a seamless part of the moving process. I think most of us have too much stuff, and it’s a great idea to encourage people to declutter and donate when they’re going through and boxing stuff up anyway.
While I was able to get a rough ballpark estimate from an Allied representative over the phone, I would need to do a video call with an estimator to receive a formal quote. This isn’t ideal if you’re trying to gather quotes quickly to compare.
Allied doesn’t provide a final price until your movers’ truck is all packed up and weighed. This isn’t uncommon with moving companies, but I might personally be stressed out if I didn’t have an established number before then. What’s more, Allied charges for a minimum of four hours (including a minimum of one hour for driving).
Allied Van Lines is a great option if your move is long-distance and on the larger side, as well as if you’re looking to ship your vehicle with a reputable company. Even if you’re moving from a place as remote as Warrior Mountain or Holland Island, there’s a good chance that Allied can help, as it has one of the largest networks and expertise in moving between remote locations. If you’re undertaking a small local move and don’t care to pay the four-hour minimum, I recommend looking at International Van Lines for a similar offering. It’s worth noting that IVL isn’t BBB-accredited. If you need to ship your car and you’re looking for an alternative to Allied, I recommend North American Van Lines.
Most of us lead busy lives and would like quick self-service options to compare different moving providers easily. A few of our top-rated movers, like Allied and JK Moving Services, make customers jump through a few hoops in the booking process but also tend to offer more customization and give more accurate pricing estimates.
If sustainability is a priority for you, I suggest comparing Allied and JK Moving Services, another mover with eco-friendly benefits. And if you’re looking for a DIY-friendly alternative, check out North American Van Lines, another comparable mover that offers a container option.
Allied Van Lines focuses on full-service moves but also offers partial-service, container, and fragile-only packing options. This is perfect if you’re willing to do some or most of the work yourself, if your move is small, or if you have fragile or valuable possessions that need the extra care of professional movers. This could be fine art, spirits, or china, to name a few examples.
Allied offers short- and long-term storage solutions. This provider can even store your belongings for several years — this can be valuable if you’re doing a partial move overseas or are downsizing temporarily. As always, we recommend shopping around for options, but Allied claims all of its storage facilities have alarm systems, 24-hour security, and special crates to prevent damage.
In Maryland, Allied Van Lines offers the following services:
| Service | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Local Moving | Yes |
| Long Distance/Interstate Moving | Yes |
| International Moving | Yes |
| Packing and Unpacking | Yes |
| Loading and Unloading | Yes |
| Storage Services | Yes |
Cost
I was able to get a ballpark estimate over the phone, but according to the representative, this estimate would change based on many factors (including but definitely not limited to my virtual survey, actual moving date, and the total weight of my belongings). So, emphasis on the ballpark here.
For my 680-mile move between Baltimore, MD, and Atlanta, GA, the estimate I received was:
Transportation without packing: $3,500
Transportation with packing: $4,300
With car shipping and packing: $5,500
Home size: 2 Bedrooms, 1.5 Bath, 1,500 square feet
Estimated move size: 5000 lbs
Editor’s Note: The cost data provided in this article is based on Today’s Homeowner’s standardized sample moving scenario from Baltimore to Atlanta for a single-family home, with a move date set 8 weeks away. Please be aware that these estimates may vary depending on factors such as additional services required and market fluctuations. The cost data presented was accurate at the time of writing.
It’s worth noting that Allied doesn’t charge a deposit, which most movers do. However, your first payment is due within 48 hours of service. And, as mentioned earlier, Allied charges for a minimum of four hours (including one hour allocated to driving), so it might not be the best choice for a Maryland move within the same city or neighborhood.
Available Discounts
Allied’s website provides general recommendations for saving money, like scheduling your move for a mid-month weekday and avoiding moving in the middle of summer. This company does provide a senior discount for an average of 5% to 15%, but it’s discretionary and given on a case-by-case basis.
We gave Allied Van Lines a perfect customization score thanks to its myriad of options for different kinds of moves and moving people. As mentioned, vehicle shipping is definitely where Allied shines, transporting most vehicles, including cars, trucks, SUVs, boats, yachts, luxury and classic cars, snowmobiles, jet skis, motorcycles, and RVs. Allied is also a reliable choice for DIY movers with its variety of packing and container options.
Like North American and International Van Lines, Allied offers full-valuation coverage for an additional fee. This means the provider covers the cost to repair or replace any lost or damaged items.
| Customization Options | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Assembly/ Disassembly | Yes |
| Sells Packing Materials | Yes |
| Offers Valuation Coverage | Yes |
| Piano Moving | Yes |
| Car Shipping | Yes |
| Special Item/ Antique Moving | Yes |
| Custom Crating | Yes |
| Junk Removal | Yes |
| Home Staging | No |
Although Allied Van Lines has only one star and a B-score on the Better Business Bureau, it’s only had 98 complaints in the last three years. Furthermore, it’s accredited, which means the BBB itself has determined that this provider operates with integrity and demonstrates a commitment to resolve any customer complaints.
Like the other moving carriers and brokers we’ve reviewed, reviews for Allied are a mixed bag. Most complaints are about a lack of communication from customer service and damage due to the carelessness of movers. However, many positive reviews comment on the efficiency and competence of movers. It’s worth noting that Allied has received many national awards and consistently tops both our own and other reviewers’ lists.
Like North American Van Lines, Allied gives customers the option to book their move with a “Quality Mover” through their Allied Quality Mover Award program. Moving partners receive a certificate if they score high on categories like on-site estimates, packing, loading and unloading of goods, as well as customer satisfaction. It’s worth noting, however, that it’s unclear whether it’s a third party of these moving companies themselves that rate their partners.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | A+ / 1 | 57 |
| Trustpilot | 2.3 | 12 |
| 4.5 | 13 | |
| Yelp | 3.2 | 19 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of writing.
Most Common Praise for Allied Van Lines
Positive customer reviews mention friendly and professional movers and accurate estimates. Many reviewers, especially on Google, say their final price was actually lower than the estimate. Some reviews mention that even though Allied’s quote was higher than that of other providers, they ultimately went with Allied because it came off as more trustworthy.
Most Common Criticism for Allied Van Lines
Unhappy customers especially note delivery delays, missing or broken items, and difficulty filing claims. Another point of contention is pushy subcontractors. If you go with a broker, it’s always important to look up the local moving company’s reviews if your move ends up being outsourced.
Transparency is important because it encourages accountability on the part of moving companies and their partners when it comes to everything from pricing to accessibility. We gave Allied Van Lines an average transparency score. Allied offers over-the-phone booking and GPS tracking, has clearly stated customer service hours, and is open about the fact that it brokers out moves to other companies. Where Allied loses points is in the lack of sample pricing and clear information about additional fees. As mentioned, some reviews comment on unknown fees adding up when the invoice comes.
North American Van Lines
4.0
Our Rating
With over 90 years of experience, 500 U.S. branches, and 130+ locations globally, North American Van Lines is one of the best-established providers in this review. This BBB-accredited provider offers a variety of pricing structures, including bottom-line pricing, not-to-exceed pricing, and customized pricing. This flat-rate approach, along with a straightforward insurance claims process, a variety of discounts, and 24/7 customer service, is really what sets this provider apart. NAVL loses points mainly for its slow quoting process.
Hands down, what I like most about North American Van Lines is its predictable pricing model and flexible approach to its basic services. With multiple options both for pricing and packing, you can feel confident about your bottom line and your own level of control as you plan for your move. Along with comprehensive home surveys, this flat-rate approach leads to more accurate estimates from the get-go, inspiring trust and ensuring a smoother moving process for everyone involved.
I really appreciate the simple, user-friendly insurance claims process. When a moving company makes damage claims easy for customers, it shows that they believe in the competence of their teams and systems. Like Allied, NAVL provides a Quality Mover Award for local teams/branches that score high on customer satisfaction and other standards, adding another layer of trust.
As I’ve found with most large moving companies with a national presence, quality can be pretty inconsistent between different North American Van Lines locations. As I’ve mentioned before, you should always check out reviews for your local branch before you commit to a carrier.
A lengthy quote process is something that might make you choose a different provider. With North American, you can expect to go through a comparatively detailed on-site home evaluation before receiving your final quote. If you’re looking for a quick online quote, you won’t get it with NAVL.
North American Van Lines stands out thanks to its pricing options, thorough home evaluations, and straightforward claims process. All three things contribute significantly to a sense of trust in the company. Add to that the presence of a Quality Mover Award, and North American is, in my opinion, one of the more trustworthy moving providers out there.
The quoting process with North American Van Lines is lengthy and detailed. Although this helps ensure that the final cost aligns closely with each specific moving requirement, if you’re someone who wants a quick quote to get the process going and you don’t mind paying more later, NAVL might not be the best choice.
Although North American is accessible thanks to its flat-rate approach, it’s on the expensive side for small, local moves, and it doesn’t offer Maryland customers an in-house financing option like JK Moving Services does. JK Moving is comparative in most other aspects, so it’s a solid alternative if you’re looking for a full-service mover with customization options.
We gave North American Van Lines a perfect score here thanks to a variety of industry-standard moving services as well as specialty services like debris removal and uninstallation/installation. A few services that set NAVL apart are its 24/7 customer service and online claims program. Customers can easily file both international and domestic claims online or through a designated claims support line.
North American’s three pricing options are as follows:
- Bottom-Line Pricing: A fixed price based on your moving quote.
- Not-To-Exceed Pricing: Your final cost may end up being lower but won’t exceed your quote.
- Customized Pricing: Combining a guaranteed price with separate service costs.
As mentioned, North American is on the pricier side for small, local, and simple moves that don’t require any specialty services. For Maryland movers changing up their condo for one a few blocks down, NAVL isn’t the right pick. If your move is long-distance and requires specialty services, pricing starts to look more comparative to other providers.
North American does offer a full-service container program called BlueExpress, which can help with small moving needs. This is similar to Allied’s AlliedExpress program and Interstate Moving and Relocation Group’s partnership with PODS. BlueExpress is available for interstate moves and includes loading and unloading, storage options, and guaranteed delivery dates. You can also opt for professional packing.
North American offers Marylanders the following services:
| Service | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Local Moving | Yes |
| Long Distance/Interstate Moving | Yes |
| International Moving | Yes |
| Packing and Unpacking | Yes |
| Loading and Unloading | Yes |
| Storage Services | Yes |
Cost
While North American Van Lines may be slightly more expensive than other providers, the pricing structure and comprehensive estimates makes it easier to predict cost and stay within your moving budget. Outside of the three pricing options, you can expect the following add-ons to increase your costs: full-service packing, crating, storage, heavy items and of course, car shipping. Note that NAVL doesn’t require a deposit.
Similar to Allied Van Lines, local moves with North American are charged at an hourly rate with minimum fees. Typically, you can expect to pay for a minimum of two to four hours, so if you’re embarking on a local Maryland move with a small budget, you’re better off looking at a company like JK Moving. While I was unable to get even a basic quote over the phone without scheduling a home survey, North American’s own website puts a 2 to 3-bedroom move across 1,000 miles at about $7,000.
Available Discounts
One of my favorite things about North American Van Lines is that this provider offers some impressive discounts. They’re fairly niched but aimed at some of our most vulnerable demographics.
Seniors who are members of the Senior Citizens League can get 40% to 65% discounts, while Alliance members can get 50%. I haven’t seen deep discounts like these with any other provider. Additionally, veterans who are VetRewards members get discounts as well, but I was unable to find exact rates.
North American Van Lines offers a wide range of customization options similar to the other providers that I’ve reviewed. And just like Allied Van Lines, North American offers its own dedicated solution for small and simple moving needs. BlueExpress is a solid option, especially if you’re moving to a major city, since these smaller containers can unload into tight spaces.
North American offers storage, but note that this service can be limited in certain locations, so you’ll need to ask your local representative. NAVL offers full-value coverage at $8 per $1,000 of value covered for customers needing a bit more protection. For specialty items such as hot tubs, disassembly and reassembly are available as add-on options.
| Customization Options | Availability (Yes or No) |
| Assembly/ Disassembly | Yes |
| Sells Packing Materials | Yes |
| Offers Valuation Coverage | Yes |
| Piano Moving | Yes |
| Car Shipping | Yes |
| Special Item/ Antique Moving | Yes |
| Custom Crating | Yes |
| Junk Removal | Yes |
| Home Staging | Yes |
North American has maintained accreditation with the Better Business Bureau since 1984 and currently has an A+ rating on the site. However, reviews on BBB, Trustpilot, and Yelp are less than stellar. Positive customer reviews mention transparent pricing and reliable customer service, while negative reviews mainly express general disappointment in the quality of the move and a lack of communication after signing a contract.
NAVL doesn’t have many reviews on any of the platforms, so it might make sense that it skews negative. That said, always check reviews for your local branch on a number of review platforms to see how it stacks up against other providers you’re considering.
| Rating Site | Rating | Number of Reviews |
| BBB | A+ / 1.1 | 31 |
| Trustpilot | 2.3 | 7 |
| 4.1 | 61 | |
| Yelp | 2.1 | 39 |
Editor’s Note: The ratings provided were accurate at the time of writing.
Most Common Praise for North American Van Lines
Positive reviews mention the professionalism and efficiency of North American’s movers, as well as timely deliveries and careful handling of items. Many reviews say their quotes were accurate, reasonable, and didn’t change after signing the contract. There aren’t as many mentions of hidden fees and surprising invoices as I’ve seen with other providers.
Most Common Criticism for North American Van Lines
Negative reviews mostly mention rude and careless movers, delayed or broken goods, and a lack of communication after signing the contract. Despite most reviewers saying good things about quotes and pricing, there are still a few negative reviews that mention being charged more than their quote later on in the process. There also seems to be some miscommunication to customers regarding how the full-value coverage compensation works.
Transparency is important because it encourages accountability on the part of moving companies and their partners when it comes to everything from pricing to accessibility. We gave North American Van Lines one of the lowest transparency scores. Positive factors include binding estimates, 24/7 customer service, and an over-the-phone booking option. NAVL lost many points on not providing sample pricing, online booking, or clearly listing additional fees.
What To Look for in a Reputable Moving Company in Maryland
Finding the right moving company is hard work. I hope my review has helped you narrow it down to one or two Maryland favorites, but here are a few more tips on what to look for in a quality mover. Start by asking people you know if they’ve used a moving company recently and what their experience was like. Then, start calling companies to gather estimates — try to get at least three to compare. Ask for things like discounts, coverage, and the best time to move.
Note that all movers must carry basic liability at $0.60 per pound per item. However, most movers offer some kind of full-value coverage.
During this process, start looking for red flags in the company and its crews, such as lacking communication, showing up late for a survey, or trying to pressure you into signing a contract.
It’s a good idea to check reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, and Trustpilot. You can also check the companies’ track records on the Better Business Bureau. Finally, make sure the mover is insured and registered. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration issues a U.S. DOT number to licensed interstate movers. Be sure to track down this number — you’ll need it if you have to file a claim against the company later. For an interstate move, you can verify the license through FMCSA’s Protect Your Move program. If your move is within Maryland, check with the Maryland Consumer Affairs Agency.
How To Avoid Moving Scams in Maryland
Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for people to fall victim to moving scams. We may think of these as rare occasions when a fraudulent company takes off with all of your stuff. However, more common scams include shady contracts, hidden fees, and fake credentials. It’s awful being victimized during such a vulnerable time, and it really helps to learn how to identify moving scams beforehand.
According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, here are some common red flags:
- Lowballing a quote without an on-site inspection
- Requiring cash or suspiciously large deposits
- Trying to pressure you into agreeing as quickly as possible
- Asking you to sign blank or incomplete documents
- Not giving straightforward answers
- Not providing you with a copy of “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move,” which they’re federally required to provide to all customers
- Lack of licensing information on their website
- Generic voicemail and no clear local physical address
Maryland Moving Company News
There are more people moving away from Maryland than there are new people settling in the state. According to Allied Van Lines, the most popular destinations for Marylanders are Florida and Atlanta, Georgia. The majority of movers cite health, finances, and quality of life as the main reasons for leaving the Old Line State.
4.5
One month of free storage included with your move
Provides moves in all 50 states
Offers air & ocean freighting
4.0
Flat rate pricing for all moves
Offers price matching
Expedited moves between big cities
4.2
Top-notch packing services
Nationwide partner network
Comprehensive moving calculator
FAQs
How Much Does a Moving Company Cost in Maryland?
The average cost of a moving company in Maryland is $110 per hour, with a total move cost ranging from $400 to $3,600. For the best deal possible, be sure to check out our guide on negotiating with a moving company.
Should You Tip Movers in Maryland?
It’s customary to tip 10% of your total moving cost, but some people prefer to tip $5 to $10 per mover per hour or a flat $20 per day. To learn more about tipping your movers, check out our guide on how much to tip movers.
Are Moving Companies in Maryland Worth It?
A moving company is worth it in Maryland if you want to outsource the work and stress of moving. Check out our article on the pros and cons of DIY vs professional moving to find the perfect approach for you.
For our best tips on how to prepare for a move, check out our complete moving checklist and survival guide.
