8 best long-distance moving companies in Midland, TX

There are a variety of factors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against challenges like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Picking the right movers can help alleviate your concerns. We've made this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Midland so you, your family, and your possessions get to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that perform long-distance moves differ considerably from those that only assist with local moves. Local movers typically only work within a certain geographic area. They'll usually charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that radius if they’re willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance mover is that they typically set fees based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies more often charge based on time. However, some companies use a mix of time and weight to calculate their prices, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

Local Midland movers may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance movers can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Midland

Picking the right long-distance mover in Midland requires research to ensure the company offers the services you need and works within your budget. Here are some tips for choosing a legitimate, trustworthy long-distance mover in Midland.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage options: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or similar options for long-distance moves inside one state. In addition to the insurance choices carried by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your possessions. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance plans below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers 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 rules, such as mandating that movers provide a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Midland several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Ensure these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare several loans to make sure you choose the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what others say about specific long-distance moving companies. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and loved ones.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and more expensive to get a moving company.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Trustworthy movers generally shouldn't demand your complete payment before the move. If a mover has a history of poor 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

piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to hire your moving company well before of your move date. We advise scheduling movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move by yourself, get started at least a month in advance. When it comes to valuable, sentimental, or fragile belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

It's also important to make a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done 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 putting together a bag with items such as toothbrushes, extra clothes, and medications.

Lastly, make sure to get enough rest the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

For long-distance moves, moving insurance is critical since 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. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable items (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some movers. Full Value Protection is more expensive but provides more comprehensive coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered for free, but it has less coverage. With this plan, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost possessions.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. This typically isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but checking your policy might be worth a look.

Sources

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