10 best long-distance moving companies in Arlington, TX

Long-distance or interstate moves include their own challenges that set them apart from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

Selecting the right movers can help alleviate your challenges. We've compiled this list of the best long-distance movers in Arlington so you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies differ in a few ways. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes, while long-distance movers more likely to set fees based on the weight. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local movers. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific location and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves can't be beaten. Choosing a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Arlington

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options can feel overwhelming, making it challenging to hire the right one for you. Here are some tips for finding a legitimate, reliable long-distance moving company in Arlington.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, inquiring about these or other options is a good idea. To fully protect your belongings during the move, we suggest purchasing your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as requiring movers to provide a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We advise asking for quotes several months before your move. Request detailed cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Arlington. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing options as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help with expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several loans to make sure you select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others say about certain long-distance moving companies. You should also ask friends and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be challenging and costlier to hire a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Arlington, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be suspicious of movers that give you “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding prices. Additionally, reliable moving companies won't request the full payment before the move. Avoid moving companies with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA describes mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A valuable tip for long-distance moves is to secure your movers far enough ahead of time. We recommend scheduling movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we recommend getting started a month beforehand. You probably have fragile, valuable, or sentimental items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Write a list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move. The list should include things such as updating your address with the Texas DMV.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days of your move, such as toiletries, extra clothes, and medications.

The night before moving day, don't forget to get a full night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is key since it'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less coverage. This option requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings damaged or lost during the move.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

Texas Department of Motor Vehicles U.S. DOT Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration