10 best long-distance moving companies in Mission Bend, TX

Long-distance or interstate moves are distinct from local moves in significant ways. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns such as how to move your car.

The right movers can help put your mind at ease. We've compiled this guide to the best long-distance movers in Mission Bend so you, your family, and your possessions get to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers are different in many ways. Local moving companies only offer services within a specific geographic area and often charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service circle 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 by time. Some moving companies, however, may use a mix of time and weight to set their prices, so it's key to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

Local Mission Bend moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and experience, especially when moving between states. Long-distance moving companies 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 Mission Bend

When you're choosing a long-distance mover, the wide range of options may be overwhelming. Below, we offer some tips on how to choose a legitimate and reliable long-distance moving company in Mission Bend.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can look into these or other insurance options. In addition to the insurance coverage provided by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you complete protection for your belongings. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified mover is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to provide a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance movers in Mission Bend several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Ensure these estimates include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong strategy to help cover cost. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several choices allows you to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what others have said about specific long-distance movers. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• 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 costlier to get a mover. Since Mission Bend 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: Be wary of movers that offer “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding quotes. Additionally, reliable movers won't request the full payment before the move. Avoid movers with a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful tip for long-distance moves is to find your movers far enough in advance. We suggest booking your move at least three months in advance, or possibly earlier if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

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

Making a checklist of all the things that need to be done both 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.

Pack a bag of essentials for the first few days, such as toiletries, extra clothes, and medications.

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll cover the cost if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide 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 may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. Although Full Value Protection is pricier, it offers more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it provides less protection. With this option, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items.

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. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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