Best Moving Companies in Texas (2024)
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Texas moves come with their fair share of challenges, including driving long distances, dealing with unpredictable weather, and hitting traffic on busy highways. Whether you’re relocating within a major city like Houston or moving across the state to a small town like Fredericksburg, you should hire movers who are familiar with Texas roads.
To help you choose a reputable mover, we rated 14 moving companies in the Lone Star State and chose our top five based on their service, reliability, and expertise. Allied Van Lines and North American Van Lines got our top two spots due to their comprehensive service offerings and customer-first approaches.
Top Moving Companies in Texas
We gathered quotes, surveyed 1,000 moving customers, and read hundreds of reviews for 14 different moving companies. Based on this research, our team chose the following five movers as the best for Texas:
- Allied Van Lines
- North American Van Lines
- JK Moving Services
- International Van Lines
- Safeway Moving Inc.
There are also a few local Texas movers we like, which we get into later in the article. However, larger companies typically have more resources to manage relocations in the state. With extensive fleets, experienced crews, and specialized equipment, these movers are well-equipped to handle Texas’s vast distances and tough terrain. They also provide access to modern tracking tools and technology, making it easier to coordinate your move, whether you’re going from Austin to Dallas or across state lines.
Comparing Top Texas Movers
The table below compares our top Texas moving companies on key factors. Pricing was calculated based on five moving quotes for two-bedroom moves ranging between 500 and 800 miles. Your moving costs will fluctuate based on your home size and other specifics of your move.
| Provider | Our Score | BBB Rating* | Average Price | Deposit | FMCSA Licensing | Get a Quote |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| A+ | $5,370 | None | Carrier | Visit site | ||
| A+ | $5,969 | None | Carrier & Broker | Visit site | ||
| A+ | $7,171 | $250 | Carrier | Visit site | ||
| A+ | $5,250 | Up to 25% | Carrier | Visit site | ||
| B- | $5,631 | Up to 40% | Carrier | Visit site |
*The Better Business Bureau is an independent organization that evaluates companies’ reputations and responsiveness to customers. Ratings are accurate as of November 2024.
Each mover on our list is a full-service moving company, meaning they provide packing/unpacking and loading/unloading services. We recommend choosing a full-service mover because it’s more convenient and simplifies your transition to your new home, especially if you’re moving a long distance. However, a partial or self-service move may work better for specific circumstances. We’ll go into more detail about these move types later on.
| Specialty Services Offered | Allied Van Lines | North American Van Lines | JK Moving Services | International Van Lines | Safeway Moving Inc. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle shipping | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Fragile-only packing | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Furniture disassembly/reassembly | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Crating | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Appliance and electronics handling | ✔ | ✔ | X | X | ✔ |
| Antique/specialty services | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Piano moving | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Storage | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Office moves | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Key Moving Terms Explained
Understanding moving contracts and industry terms can be confusing—especially when you’re trying to navigate estimates and service agreements. Here are some key moving terms you might encounter while searching for movers:
- Carriers: These moving companies have their own trucks and handle the entire moving process in-house. We recommend going with a carrier because it creates a smoother experience, and they take on the responsibility for any damage that might happen during your move.
- Brokers: Unlike carriers, brokers don’t have their own trucks and don’t actually transport your belongings. They connect you with other providers who do. While you can have a good experience with a broker, the quality of service can vary more than with a carrier since they rely on a large network of contractors.
- Nonbinding estimate: This is a ballpark figure for what your move might cost, but it can change based on the weight of your belongings and any extra services you might need.
- Binding estimate: This kind of estimate locks you into a specific price based on the weight of your belongings. Keep in mind that if you add services, it could bump up the total cost.
- Not-to-exceed estimate: This estimate is the least common but arguably the best option. With this estimate, you won’t pay more than what you were originally quoted, even if your inventory weighs more. And if it weighs less, you could end up paying less than you were originally quoted.
Our Reviews of the Best Texas Moving Companies
We provide a closer look at our top five Texas movers in the reviews below. We focused on details relevant to the state’s specific moving challenges, such as long distances, handling valuables in diverse terrains, and managing routes in both urban centers and more remote areas. We also considered factors like customer service quality, pricing, scheduling flexibility, and the protection offered for your items. While all five companies provide reliable core services, our reviews highlight each one’s unique strengths and what customers moving within, to, or from Texas might expect.
Allied Van Lines
North American Van Lines
JK Moving Services
International Van Lines
Safeway Moving Inc.
Moving Long-Distance to or From Texas
Planning a long-distance move to or from Texas comes with unique considerations. The state’s landscapes range from humid coastal plains to the dry, wide-open spaces of West Texas, each with its own moving challenges. Discuss these logistics with your mover, research your new area’s cost of living, and get acquainted with local culture to help settle in smoothly.
When moving across state lines, organization is key. Choose a reliable mover with solid credentials and interstate moving experience, and request detailed estimates to avoid unexpected fees. Discuss insurance for your belongings and coordinate logistics in advance to stay on track. Finally, go over your moving contract thoroughly so you know your rights and responsibilities.
Moving Locally Within Texas
If you want to move locally within the Lone Star State, start by researching reputable movers in your area. Make sure they’re licensed by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and carry proper insurance. This way, you’ll know your belongings are protected.
Request detailed estimates from multiple movers, specifying the services you need—like packing, loading, and unloading—and ask about any extra fees. Good movers should provide clear, upfront pricing, so you’ll know the total cost before moving day.
Once you’ve chosen a mover, coordinate logistics by sharing details about your current and new locations—especially if there are narrow streets or parking limitations. Talk through the packing process and materials to keep your items safe in transit, and confirm that your movers use the right equipment, like furniture pads and dollies, to protect your belongings.
Local Favorites
We recommend van lines and larger moving companies for most Texas moves. However, not all national companies offer moves within the state. Here are a few local movers you can consider if you’re moving a shorter distance:
Austin
Mighty E’s Moving: Mighty E’s Moving is an Austin-based company that specializes in local and long-distance moves and offers labor-only services for those who prefer to handle the packing themselves.
Unicorn Moving: Unicorn Moving is an Austin-based mover that prioritizes sustainability. It uses eco-friendly packing materials and implements green practices throughout the moving process.
Dallas-Forth Worth Area
All My Sons Moving: This company has over 20 years of experience and specializes in residential and commercial moving, packing and unpacking, and storage. It also has a team of professionally trained and background-checked movers.
Firehouse Movers: This is a local moving company in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. It offers various moving packages, including full-service moves, apartment moves, and even piano moving services.
Houston
3 Men Movers: This moving company offers 24/7 customer support and lets you choose your moving crew based on customer reviews. Booking can be completed entirely online, which is great for last-minute relocations.
Other Moving Options
If a full-service move doesn’t fit your budget or you prefer to do things yourself, alternatives like moving containers and truck rentals may be a better fit. Container services let you pack your belongings at your own pace into a portable storage unit, making them ideal for short, local moves. This option can often be more affordable than hiring movers for packing, loading, and unloading. Companies like 1-800-PACK-RAT and PODS offer container services that work well for those moving within Texas.
Another option is to rent a truck from a company like U-Haul. This allows you to set your own timeline and can help cut costs. However, be prepared to navigate Texas’s diverse landscapes, from urban areas like Houston and Dallas to the more rural stretches of the Hill Country. Make sure you’re comfortable driving a larger vehicle, and consider how you’ll manage any additional vehicles you need to transport, whether that means towing them yourself or having someone drive them for you.
How Much Does a Texas Move Cost?
The cost of moving to, from, or within Texas depends on the distance, your total item weight, and the time of year. Based on the quotes we gathered, moving a two-bedroom home 200 miles within Texas costs approximately $7,139. This estimate includes packing services.
According to our research, this is about $1,534 more than the national average for a two-bedroom move. This could be due to factors like high moving demands in Texas, fuel costs, and longer travel times because of the state’s size.
Home Size
The following chart shows average moving costs for different home sizes across the U.S. These figures are based on 84 binding estimates from 11 moving companies and factor in inventory weight and move distance.
Inventory weight
| 1 Bedroom (2,000–4,000 lbs) | 2 Bedroom (4,000–7,000 lbs) | 3 Bedroom (7,000–10,000 lbs) | 4 Bedroom(10,000+ lbs) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Distance | Cost | Cost | Cost | Cost |
| < 1,000 miles | $2,850–$4,230 | $4,060–$7,150 | $7,350–$8,590 | $11,000–$14,800 |
| 1,000–1,500 miles | $3,250–$5,130 | $5,500–$8,750 | $8,250–$12,000 | $11,800–$17,800 |
| > 1,500 miles | $3,550–$5,130+ | $6,000–$8,750+ | $8,650–$12,000+ | $12,200–$21,000+ |
Moving larger homes or longer distances often pushes costs higher—especially if you’re crossing state lines or moving more than 1,500 miles.
Single-Day vs. Multiday Moves
Local, long-distance, and international moves all operate on different timelines. Here’s what you need to know about single-day and multiday moves:
- Single-day moves: These moves are completed in one day. The moving team will arrive, load up your belongings, and transport them to your new home within 24 hours. Because of the limited time and resources required, single-day moves generally cost less than multiday moves.
- Multiday moves: This move type spans over multiple days and is most often associated with interstate, long-distance, and international moves. These moves usually cost more than single-day moves because they require more labor and time. Additional expenses can arise from overnight fees for the moving crew, as well as more logistical coordination.
Full-Service vs. Partial-Service Moves
Full-service moves mean movers handle everything including packing, loading, transport, unpacking, and any additional services you choose. Partial-service moves are cheaper because they leave tasks like packing and unpacking to you, with movers focusing mainly on transport.
All the movers on our list are full-service moving companies, but many of them also offer partial-service options, so you can tailor the services to fit your needs and budget.
Tipping
It’s customary to tip your movers after a job well done. Think about the effort they put in and any extra challenges they handled along the way. For a full day of work, it’s common to tip around $20–$50 per mover, or if you’d rather tip based on time, $4–$5 per hour works well too. Some people also tip 15%–20% of the total move cost, which can be split among the team. It’s handy to have cash ready for tips, but some companies accept tips via different apps—just check with the crew or company in advance.
How To Get a Good Price
Moving is expensive, but there are a few tips and tricks you can use to get the best rates. Here are a few:
- Compare multiple estimates: Get quotes from at least three moving companies to find the best pricing—some movers, such as Safeway Moving Inc., even offer price matching. Check if your estimates are binding or nonbinding.
- Book early and during off-peak times: Schedule your move in fall or winter, if possible. Demand is lower during this time of year, so you may be able to get a better price.
- Inquire about discounts: Many movers in Texas offer discounts for seniors, students, and military personnel. Check the company’s website or ask directly to see if you qualify.
- Understand additional fees: Some companies charge extra for packing services, stairs, or moving items a significant distance from your home to the truck. Review these details in your moving contract to avoid surprises.
What Is Moving Insurance?
Moving insurance protects your belongings in transit and is required for all full-service movers. All movers must offer the following two options:
- Released value protection: This is the standard coverage included with your service at no extra charge. It offers limited reimbursement if items are lost or damaged, depending on their weight.
- Full-value protection: This insurance covers the full cost to replace or repair lost or damaged items. It requires an additional fee, but many customers find it provides worthwhile peace of mind.
Some movers also provide options like catastrophic coverage or high-value item protection for added flexibility. If your mover doesn’t offer the protection you want but you like its services otherwise, you can get third-party insurance for additional coverage. However, third-party moving insurance is often more expensive than options offered directly through moving companies. In-house coverage is also simpler to set up because it’s included directly with your mover’s service, so it streamlines your coverage under one agreement.
Texas Moving Regulations
Texas moving companies must follow regulations set by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV), which oversees movers operating within the state. If you’re moving to, from, or within Texas, make sure your mover holds a valid TxDMV license, which proves they’re authorized and properly insured. Interstate moving companies must also be registered with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to legally operate across state lines.
TxDMV has a moving checklist that outlines things to look out for when choosing a moving company. For example, the checklist mentions that customers should request a written proposal before loading any items onto the moving truck. If you have a complaint about a mover, you can report it directly to the TxDMV for investigation.
Nailing Down Your Moving Timeline
Figuring out your moving timeline will help you have a stress-free relocation. Here’s our recommended weekly breakdown:
- Eight weeks before: Make a list to start inventorying and categorizing your belongings. Use your list to gather accurate moving quotes.
- Six weeks before: Choose a moving company and book your date. Begin packing nonessential items, like decor and artwork.
- Four weeks before: Continue packing nonessentials and arrange to transfer your utilities and services, including subscriptions and memberships.
- Two weeks before: Pack semi-essential belongings, such as silverware, plates, and toiletries, and file a change of address with USPS.
- Moving week: Finishing packing any remaining items. We recommend transporting essentials, like medications and sentimental items, yourself, so you can ensure they won’t get lost in the move. Do a final walkthrough of your current residence.
Advice From a Moving Customer
Full-service moving companies are our No. 1 choice for relocations, but homeowners looking to save money or who like handling their items themselves may prefer a rental truck. We spoke to Terry O., a moving customer who moved from Florida to Texas in 2023 who used a Penske truck.
“I moved in the middle of summer, which wasn’t ideal. Coming from Florida was hot enough, and Texas was like 105 degrees. The truck was very clean, though, and it was overall a good experience.”
Terry towed his car during the first half of his move using Penske’s tow dolly service. He sold his car during his move. “It was very convenient. [Penske] allowed me to take the car dolly, and once I sold my car, I was able to cancel the reservation without any additional fees.”
While Terry had a positive experience with his truck rental, he mentioned that driving it was “challenging” since it was his first time operating such a large vehicle. He also said parking the truck was a hassle at times. This experience reflects the reality many DIY movers face: While renting a truck can be practical, it also demands some familiarity with handling a large vehicle.
If you go the DIY-move route, we recommend that you practice driving the moving truck in an empty parking lot to get comfortable with the vehicle’s size and handling. You may also want to bring someone along on your move, as Terry did, to help you with navigation and parking.
How We Evaluated Texas Movers
We chose our top five Texas moving companies based on their reputation, service offerings, and pricing. Each mover has experience with Texas relocations and offers a full suite of services to meet your needs.
Our Rating System
To find the top Texas movers, we took a close look at what people had to say. We surveyed 1,000 recent moving customers, read hundreds of reviews, and checked each company’s BBB rating. We also collected dozens of quotes to get a real sense of average pricing across the state, giving us a clear picture of which movers deliver the best value and service quality.
Here’s an overview of our scoring system:
- Customer service: We looked at each company’s BBB rating, customer complaints, and online tools, including moving calculators and moving checklists. Companies with A or A+ ratings, responsive customer service, and several online tools earned the most points.
- Reputation: We checked licensing and truck out-of-service rates through the FMCSA and whether movers conduct background checks. We awarded the most points to carriers with minimal broken-down trucks and screened employees.
- Value: For this section, we focused on pricing, quote types, and storage container availability. Allied Van Lines and North American Van Lines are tied for first place in this category since they both offer affordable pricing, binding estimates, and portable storage units.
- Service offerings: We compiled each mover’s service offerings to see which company had the most comprehensive options. Higher scores went to movers offering a range of services, from packing and unloading to vehicle shipping.
- Item protection: We weighed in on each mover’s insurance options and protection services, like GPS tracking, crating, and storage. Companies that offer more than the two required insurance options and several protection services received the most points.
- Scheduling: We awarded the most points to movers with accessible scheduling processes, mobile apps, and multiple contact methods.
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.
