10 best long-distance moving companies in Dickinson, TX

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in important ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against concerns like how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

Picking the right moving professionals can help alleviate your issues. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings make it to your new home safely, we've compiled this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Dickinson.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only do local moves. The main distinction between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only offer services within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers often set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies often charge based on the time needed for your move. However, some providers use a combination of time and weight to set their rates, so be sure to ask 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. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific location and potentially offer less expensive rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves can't be beaten. Hiring a long-distance mover 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 headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Dickinson

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in Dickinson requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. See the list below for some advice on finding a licensed and trustworthy long-distance mover in Dickinson.

• 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. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, ask about the insurance options provided by your mover. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to completely protect your possessions. We discuss long-distance moving insurance coverage in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. Trustworthy providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to give clients a written estimate.
• Compare costs: We recommend looking for quotes several months before your move. Request itemized quotes from several long-distance movers in Dickinson. Confirm that these estimates include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing options as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. A moving or relocation loan can help cover expenses. Ask your moving company about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare a few choices to make sure you get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what other customers have said about specific long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Friends and relatives can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be difficult and more expensive to get a mover. Since Dickinson is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you cautious. Reputable moving companies generally won't request your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies with a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Scheduling your movers well before your move date is essential when preparing for a long-distance move. It's best if you book your move at least 90 days ahead of time. This gives you enough time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need more specialized services, like piano or car moving.

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

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

The night before moving day, remember to get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have 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. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable items (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection is more expensive but offers more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less coverage. With this plan, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

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