10 best long-distance moving companies in Huntsville, TX

Long-distance or interstate moves have unique challenges that set them apart from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance worry about challenges such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Put your mind at ease by selecting the best moving professionals for the job. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in Huntsville to help you, your family, and your possessions make it safely to your new home.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies differ in a few ways. Local moving companies only work within a specific geographic radius and often charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to these requests 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 based on how long a job takes. Some moving providers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to set their prices, so it's necessary to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

While local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is extremely valuable, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Huntsville

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the choices can be overwhelming, making it difficult to hire the right one for your move. Below, we provide some recommendations on how to find a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Huntsville.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to offer two types of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, looking into these or other options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance choices provided by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your possessions. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration serves as a sign that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA enforces certain policies, such as requiring movers to provide a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We suggest looking for quotes several months ahead of your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to get itemized cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Huntsville. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing plans to help you pay for your move. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help with 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 select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what previous customers have said about particular long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be challenging and more expensive to get a mover. Huntsville also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the summer may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that offer “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding estimates. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your full payment upfront. Steer clear of moving companies that have an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key tip for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough ahead of time. To ensure a smooth move, reserve your movers no less than three months before your move date, and possibly even more if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we advise starting a month beforehand. You probably have valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to keep in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, make a detailed list of everything that needs to be done 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, toothbrushes, and extra clothes.

Finally, make sure to get a good night’s sleep the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged during your move. Some moving companies might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get better coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it provides less coverage. With this insurance, your moving company will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy after you move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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