10 best long-distance moving companies in Missouri City, TX

Long-distance or interstate moves present their own challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move a car are common worries for people moving long-distance.

The right movers can help put your mind at ease. We've made this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Missouri City so you, your family, and your belongings get to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies differ in several ways. Local movers only offer services within a specific geographic radius and frequently charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to such requests at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies typically 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. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when calculating their prices, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Local Missouri City moving companies are typically more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when relocating to another state. Choosing a long-distance moving company 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 Missouri City

When you're selecting a long-distance moving company, the wide range of options can be overwhelming. Here are some tips for finding a legitimate long-distance moving company in Missouri City.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is inside one state, ask about the options provided by your mover. In addition to the insurance options provided by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your possessions. We provide more information on long-distance moving insurance options below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: We recommend seeking out quotes several months ahead of your move. Contact several long-distance moving providers in Missouri City and get itemized quotes. Confirm that these quotes include prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any added services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. 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 help with your move. We recommend looking into several choices to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Look at Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what previous clients have said about specific long-distance moving companies. You should also ask neighbors and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year for moving, which means moving companies may be harder to hire and costlier if you’re moving between May and September. Because there are so many college students living in Missouri City, June and August 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. Legitimate moving companies generally won't demand your complete payment upfront. If a moving company has a long 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

Finding your movers well before your move date is essential when preparing for a long-distance move. It's best if you plan your move at least three months beforehand. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

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

Writing 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 extra clothes, medications, and toothbrushes.

Finally, on the night before moving day, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers may exclude certain possessions that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. While Full Value Protection is pricier, it gives you more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered for free, it has reduced coverage. This insurance requires your moving company to compensate you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for possessions damaged or lost during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy during your move. This usually 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