10 best long-distance moving companies in New Braunfels, TX

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

Ease your issues by hiring the best movers for the job. To help ensure you, your family members, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've put together this list of the highest-rated long-distance movers in New Braunfels.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are many key differences to consider. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers often only operate within a certain geographic radius and will charge an exorbitant fee to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

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

Local New Braunfels moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers provide valuable knowledge and expertise, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in New Braunfels

When you're selecting a long-distance moving company, the wide variety of choices can feel overwhelming. Here are some tips for picking a legitimate, trustworthy long-distance mover in New Braunfels.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of options for insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. If you're moving long-distance but not across state lines, you can inquire about these or similar options. In addition to the insurance coverage offered by your mover, getting your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your belongings. You can find more thorough information about long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies 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 taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for movers on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to provide clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance moving companies in New Braunfels several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies have financing plans. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the 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 select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what previous customers say about specific long-distance moving companies. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and relatives.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to book a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that offer “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding prices. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your full payment before the move. If a mover has a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Hiring your moving company well before your move date is key when preparing for a long-distance move. We advise scheduling movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need more specialized moving 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 valuable, fragile, or sentimental items, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's 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.

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.

The night before your move, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to repair, replace, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Full Value Protection is more expensive but provides more coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered for free, but it has less protection. This plan requires your movers to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings damaged or lost during the move.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may partially cover your belongings during your move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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