10 best long-distance moving companies in Katy, TX

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in several ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and challenges like how to move a car are common difficulties for people moving long-distance.

Hiring the right movers can help ease your worries. We've made this overview of the best long-distance movers in Katy so you, your family, and your possessions make it to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only do local moves. Local movers generally offer moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

Local movers are also more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to charge based on the weight. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when establishing their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Although local moving companies may have more experience moving in your specific area (and be less expensive), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance movers 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 Katy

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options can be overwhelming, making it challenging to choose the right one for your needs. Below, we offer some advice on how to pick a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Katy.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is inside one state, inquire about the options provided by your mover. We also suggest obtaining your own moving insurance to fully protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed overview below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies 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 company. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces regulations such as mandating that movers supply customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: We advise asking for quotes several months before your move. For a comprehensive comparison, be sure to request detailed cost breakdowns from multiple long-distance movers in Katy. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any added services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Plenty of movers have financing options to help you pay for your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the cost. Talk with your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend looking into several options to get the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to see what other clients have said about specific long-distance movers. You should also ask neighbors and family for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season to move in, it can be difficult and costlier to hire a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that provide “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding quotes. Reliable movers generally won't request your complete payment before the move. Steer clear of movers that have a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Booking your moving company far enough ahead of time is critical when getting ready for a long-distance move. To ensure a stress-free move, secure your movers no less than three months ahead of your move date, and possibly even more if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You might prefer to keep certain fragile, valuable, or sentimental items, such as artwork and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

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

Pack essentials for the first couple of days of your move, such as medications, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and extra clothes.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection costs more but gives you more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it has less protection. If you choose this option, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for belongings that are damaged or lost.

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

Sources

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