10 best long-distance moving companies in Cedar Park, TX

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in several ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with concerns like how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

The right moving company can help relieve your problems. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've put together this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Cedar Park.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are some key differences to be aware of. Local movers only operate within a specific geographic radius and often charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to these requests at all.

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

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, especially when moving from one state to another. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Cedar Park

Picking the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options can be overwhelming. Below, we provide some guidance on how to choose a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance mover in Cedar Park.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two kinds of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. In addition to the insurance options carried by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance options in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a reputable company. 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: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Cedar Park several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might need.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers offer financing plans to help you afford your move. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. We suggest researching several options to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what previous customers have said about specific long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and loved ones.
• 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 during the summer months. Because there are so many college students living in Cedar Park, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that provide “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding prices. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your full payment before the move. If a moving company has a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key piece of advice for long-distance moves is to book your movers far enough in advance. We recommend planning your move at least three months ahead of time, or possibly earlier if you need more specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. When it comes to valuable, sentimental, or fragile belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

To stay organized, write a detailed list of all the necessary tasks both before and after your move, such as notifying the Texas DMV of your new address.

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

The night before moving day, don't forget to get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

All interstate movers need to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to replace, repair, or provide money back for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but gives you more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it gives less protection. With this plan, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged possessions.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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