8 best long-distance moving companies in Big Spring, TX

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in a variety of ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

Choosing the right moving professionals can help relieve your concerns. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings get to your new home safely, we've created this overview of the top long-distance movers in Big Spring.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are a few key differences to note. Local movers generally offer moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers typically set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers often set fees based on the length of time needed for your move. Some moving companies, however, may use a mix of time and weight to calculate their final cost, so it's necessary to check your provider's pricing structure.

Local Big Spring moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when moving between states. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Big Spring

When you're hiring a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of options can be overwhelming. Below, we provide some guidance on how to pick a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Big Spring.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, looking into these or similar options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance coverage provided by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your belongings. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start asking for quotes several months before your move. Get in touch with multiple long-distance moving providers in Big Spring and ask for itemized quotes. Confirm that these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing plans. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a good strategy to help pay for some of the cost. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple options to make sure you pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what other customers have said about specific long-distance movers. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and relatives.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving between May and September.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Reliable movers generally won't ask for your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies that have a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to hire your moving company well in advance of your move date. We suggest booking movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. You might prefer to keep certain possessions, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Putting together a checklist of all the things that need to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Texas DMV, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Pack a bag with necessities for the first couple of days in your new home, such as extra clothes, medicine, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

The night before moving day, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is key for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if some of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Although Full Value Protection is more expensive, it provides better coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it provides reduced coverage. With this insurance, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy. 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