10 best long-distance moving companies in DeSoto, TX

There are several importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may be worried about higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move your car.

The right movers can help ease your issues. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the top long-distance movers in DeSoto to help you, your family, and your belongings arrive 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 movers typically only operate within a certain geographic area. They'll usually charge an exorbitant fee to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies are more likely to charge by time. Keep in mind that some moving companies might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

Local DeSoto moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Hiring a long-distance moving company for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary 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 DeSoto

When you're picking a long-distance mover, the wide range of options can feel overwhelming. See the list below for some recommendations on choosing a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in DeSoto.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can ask about these or other insurance options. In addition to the insurance options provided by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your belongings. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Start asking for quotes several months before your move. Ask for detailed cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in DeSoto. As you compare estimates, confirm that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers have financing plans to help you afford your move. A moving or relocation loan can help cover cost. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple options to make sure you choose 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 others say about particular long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means moving companies may be harder to get and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. DeSoto also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Reputable movers generally won't ask for your complete payment before the move. If a moving company has a long history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to reserve your moving company well before of your move date. We advise booking movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need particular moving services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. You might prefer to keep certain items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

Writing 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, is a great way to stay organized during a long-distance move.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a suitcase with items such as extra clothes, medicine, and toothbrushes.

The night before your move, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is a must for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your possessions are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers are required to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but offers more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it has less coverage. If you choose this plan, your movers will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for possessions that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy during your move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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