10 best long-distance moving companies in Baytown, TX

Long-distance or interstate moves include unique challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against concerns such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Picking the right movers can help alleviate your worries. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the top long-distance movers in Baytown to help you, your family, and your belongings make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are different in several ways. Local moving companies only work within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service circle if they agree to such requests at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to charge based on time, while long-distance movers more likely to charge based on the weight. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when setting their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

When faced with an interstate 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 city and potentially offer more affordable rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves can't be beaten. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Baytown

When you're picking a long-distance moving company, the wide range of choices may be overwhelming. See the list below for some guidance on choosing a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Baytown.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or similar options. To fully protect your belongings during the move, we recommend obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. We discuss long-distance moving insurance options in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving providers in Baytown several months before your move and get detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, ensure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing options to help you afford your move. A moving or relocation loan can help with expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. We suggest looking into several options to get 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 other customers have said about certain long-distance movers. Neighbors and family can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be difficult and costlier to book a moving company. Baytown also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that give you “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding estimates. Additionally, legitimate moving companies won't ask for the full payment upfront. If a moving company has a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to hire your moving company well in advance of your move date. We recommend scheduling movers at least three months 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 on your own, we recommend starting a month beforehand. You might prefer to keep certain fragile, sentimental, or valuable possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

It's also a good idea to make a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Texas DMV.

Pack a suitcase with essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, medications, and extra clothes.

Lastly, make sure to get plenty of rest the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves because it'll reimburse you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers have to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover very expensive items (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 greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less coverage. This plan requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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