8 best long-distance moving companies in McAllen, TX

There are a variety of factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may come up against complicated logistics, higher costs, and challenges like how to move your car.

Hiring the right moving professionals can help relieve your concerns. That’s why we’ve made this guide to the top long-distance movers in McAllen 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 movers are different in a few ways. Local movers generally provide moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers commonly set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies commonly charge based on the length of time needed for your move. Certain moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when establishing their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Local McAllen moving companies are typically more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when relocating to another state. Choosing a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the critical knowledge and experience to handle the logistics and legal requirements, while also saving you time and stress.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in McAllen

When you're hiring a long-distance moving company, the wide range of choices may be overwhelming. See the list below for some tips on finding a licensed and trustworthy long-distance moving company in McAllen.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two kinds of insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves that don't cross state lines, asking about these or similar options is a good idea. We also suggest purchasing your own moving insurance to completely protect your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an assurance that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers supply a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in McAllen several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Confirm that these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong strategy to help pay for some of the expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several choices allows you to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to find out what others say about particular long-distance moving companies. You should also ask neighbors and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be difficult and more expensive to book a mover. Since McAllen is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that give you nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you suspicious. You should also be wary of a moving company that asks for your entire payment upfront. If a mover has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your movers far enough in advance is extremely important when getting ready for a long-distance move. To ensure an easy move, find your movers no less than three months before your move date, and possibly even more if you need specialized services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we suggest getting started a month in advance. When it comes to sentimental, fragile, or valuable belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Creating a checklist of all the things 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.

Put together necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as medicine, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and extra clothes.

The night before moving day, don't forget to get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll give you money back if any of your possessions are lost or damagedby your movers.

All interstate movers are required to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. 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 per pound), for some moving companies. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, 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 items 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 during your 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