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If you are hiring movers Frederick MD for a full-service move, the marketing language across different companies tends to look identical. Everyone says full-service. What they actually include varies a lot once you read the contract. This guide breaks down what a real full-service move covers, what usually costs extra, and how to compare quotes that look the same on paper.
The Standard Definition
A true full-service move includes packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking. The customer in theory does not touch a box. In practice, the level of detail in each phase varies by company. AJ Moving Services handles full-service moves across Frederick County and the surrounding Maryland region.
What Packing Actually Includes
Full-service packing means the team packs your belongings into boxes for transit. They bring boxes, paper, tape, bubble wrap, and specialty containers for fragile items. Wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes, dish-pack boxes with dividers, mattress bags, and TV-specific cartons are standard. The American Moving and Storage Association publishes consumer guidance on what to expect.
Furniture Protection and Disassembly
Furniture is wrapped in moving blankets, secured with shrink wrap, and disassembled where needed (bed frames, modular sofas, large dining tables). The team marks each piece for reassembly at the destination.
Loading and Transportation
Boxes and furniture are loaded into a truck sized for your move. Quality movers Frederick MD operators inventory each piece as it loads, with the inventory list signed by the customer. Insurance and liability coverage kicks in at this point.
Unloading and Placement
At the destination, the team unloads, places furniture in the rooms you direct, and reassembles items they disassembled. They check inventory against the original list and flag any damaged pieces for claims.
Unpacking
Full unpacking is the most variable part. Some movers include ‘unpacking to surfaces’ (boxes opened, contents placed on counters and shelves). Others include only box removal. True white-glove unpacking with cabinet and drawer organisation is a premium tier. Confirm the specifics in writing.
What Usually Costs Extra
Long carries (more than 75 feet from truck to door). Stair-only access without elevator. Specialty items like pianos, safes, pool tables, and gun safes. Packing of items in extreme categories (high-value art, antiques, large fish tanks). Out-of-state final destinations beyond the standard service area. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration publishes consumer protection rules for interstate moves.
Insurance Coverage
Standard valuation coverage (often 60 cents per pound per item) is included. Full-value protection is usually optional and adds 1-2 percent of the move cost. For households with significant possessions, full-value protection is the responsible choice. The Federal Maritime Commission and FMCSA both have consumer guidance.
Local vs Long-Distance Frederick MD Moves
Local moves (within roughly 50 miles of Frederick) are billed by the hour with a minimum charge. Long-distance moves are billed by weight and distance. AJ Moving Services operates across the broader Frederick metro area and handles both types.
Quote Comparison Tips
When comparing quotes, look at the same scope across all bids. Confirm: hours-vs-flat fee, valuation tier included, packing materials included, stair and long-carry charges, fuel surcharges, and overtime rates. Quotes that look identical on top-line price often vary substantially on these details.
Timeline and Booking
Frederick metro movers book up fast for weekends and end-of-month dates. Book at least 2-4 weeks ahead for standard slots, longer for peak summer season. AJ Moving Services takes bookings at https://ajmovingservices.com/.
What Customers Should Do Before Move Day
Declutter before the move starts (you pay to move what you take). Set aside valuables and documents to transport yourself. Confirm parking access at both addresses. Have payment ready in the form specified by the contract.
FAQs
How much do movers Frederick MD typically cost?
Local moves run $1,000-$3,500 for a typical 2-3 bedroom home. Full-service with packing adds 30-50%. Long-distance moves vary widely by weight and distance.
Are full-service movers worth the cost?
For most working families, yes. The time savings and reduced moving-day stress justify the cost. Budget-conscious moves can include partial-service options.
How far in advance should I book?
Two to four weeks for weekday off-peak. Six to eight weeks for summer weekends and end-of-month dates.
Do movers transport plants or pets?
Most do not transport live plants, pets, or perishables. Owners typically handle those separately.
What about claims if something gets damaged?
File the claim within the contract window (often 9 months for full-value protection). Document damage before unpacking continues. AJ Moving’s contact page lists claim all procedures.
