10 best long-distance moving companies in Duncanville, TX

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

Picking the right moving professionals can help alleviate your worries. That’s why we’ve made this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in Duncanville to help you, your loved ones, and your belongings get safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are distinct in a few ways. The main difference 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.

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

Local Duncanville movers may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Duncanville

Finding the right long-distance moving company in Duncanville requires research to make sure the company offers the services you need and fits your budget. To help you navigate the process of picking a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Duncanville, we've compiled some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide 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. To fully protect your possessions during the move, we suggest getting your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your moving company. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as mandating that movers provide a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Request quotes several months beforehand to ensure you have plenty of time to plan your move. Ask for itemized cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Duncanville. Estimates should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies offer financing options. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong option to help cover expenses. Talk with your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several choices allows you to get 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 think about certain long-distance movers. You should also ask neighbors and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to get a mover. Duncanville also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that provide “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding prices. Trustworthy movers generally shouldn't ask for your complete payment upfront. If a moving company has an extensive history of bad 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 useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to secure your moving company well in advance of your move date. We advise scheduling your move at least three months ahead of time, or possibly earlier if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

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

Write a list of everything that needs to be done before and after your move. The list should include things such as updating your address with the Texas DMV.

Pack a bag with essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as toiletries, medications, and extra clothes.

Lastly, make sure to get plenty of rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your possessions are lost or damagedin the move.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable possessions (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less coverage. With this plan, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy after you move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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