10 best long-distance moving companies in La Porte, TX

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in many ways. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and issues such as how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

Picking the right moving professionals can help alleviate your worries. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings reach your new home safely, we've put together this guide to the highest-rated long-distance movers in La Porte.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are a few key differences to keep in mind. Local moving companies generally offer moving services within a designated geographic radius. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge an exorbitant rate to do so.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies are more likely to charge based on how long a job takes. Some movers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to calculate their final cost, so it's important to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific location (and be less expensive), the expertise of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when it comes to moving between states. Long-distance moving companies are more likely to have the right 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 La Porte

When you're choosing a long-distance moving company, the wide range of choices can be overwhelming. See the list below for some guidance on finding a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in La Porte.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, inquire about the options provided by your mover. To fully protect your possessions during the move, we suggest obtaining your own moving insurance on top of the coverage provided by your mover. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers provide a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Ask for quotes several months in advance to ensure you have enough time to plan your move. Request detailed quotes from several long-distance movers in La Porte. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many 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 moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. We recommend looking into several options to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about specific long-distance movers by reading Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means movers may be harder to book and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Because there are so many college students living in La Porte, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a suspiciously low or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your full payment before the move. If a moving company has an extensive 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

A valuable piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to hire your moving company well before of your move date. We suggest booking your move at least three months ahead of time, or even earlier if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

Start packing a full month in advance if you plan on packing for your move by yourself. When it comes to valuable, sentimental, or fragile items, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

It's also a good idea to make a checklist of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Texas DMV.

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

The night before your big move, remember to get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll cover the cost if any of your items are lost or damagedin the move.

All interstate movers need to offer two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less protection. This insurance requires your movers to reimburse you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy when you move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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