10 best long-distance moving companies in Dallas, TX

Long-distance or interstate moves differ 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.

Selecting the right movers can help lessen your concerns. That’s why we’ve created this list of the top long-distance movers in Dallas to help you, your loved ones, and your possessions get safely to your new home.

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 consider. Local moving companies only operate within a specific geographic radius and usually charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to these jobs at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge by weight, while local moving companies are more likely to charge by time. However, some movers use a mix of time and weight to set their prices, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific city and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in tackling interstate moves is invaluable. Long-distance movers can save you time and headaches 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 Dallas

Choosing the right long-distance moving company is important, and the options can be overwhelming. Below, we offer some guidance on how to pick a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Dallas.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their clients: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, ask about the options provided by your mover. To fully protect your belongings during the move, we recommend purchasing personal moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to supply a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months in advance to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to get detailed cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Dallas. As you compare estimates, ensure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several loans allows you to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what previous customers say about particular long-distance moving companies. You should also ask neighbors and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be challenging and costlier to hire a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in Dallas, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" prices should make you suspicious. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your entire payment upfront. Steer clear of movers with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. The FMCSA outlines mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Hiring your movers far enough in advance is essential when preparing for a long-distance move. We recommend hiring movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need more specialized moving services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move without professional help. You probably have sentimental, fragile, or valuable items, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving 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.

Put together essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as toiletries, extra clothes, and medications.

Lastly, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is pricier but offers better coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it gives you less protection. If you choose this option, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are lost or damaged.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. This typically 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