10 best long-distance moving companies in Pearland, TX

There are several factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move a car are common obstacles for people moving long-distance.

Hiring the right moving professionals can help alleviate your issues. We've made this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Pearland so you, your loved ones, and your possessions make it to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are some key differences to note. Local moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic area. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a much higher rate to do so.

Local moving companies are also more likely to charge based on how long a job takes, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight. Certain moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when calculating their rates, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

While local movers may have more experience moving in your specific city (and be more affordable), the knowledge and experience of a long-distance moving company is highly valuable, particularly when it comes to moving from one state to another. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Pearland

Picking the right long-distance moving company is important, and the choices can be overwhelming. Here are some tips for choosing a legitimate long-distance mover in Pearland.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two kinds of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves inside one state, looking into these or similar options is a good idea. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to better protect your belongings. You can find more thorough information on long-term moving insurance plans 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 publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces policies such as mandating that movers give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Start requesting quotes several months before your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to get itemized cost breakdowns from several long-distance movers in Pearland. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any other services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing options. A moving or relocation loan can help with expenses. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare several options to make sure you choose the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what other clients say about certain long-distance movers. You should also ask friends and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving between May and September, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and more expensive to book a mover. Since Pearland is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be cautious of movers that provide “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding quotes. Trustworthy moving companies generally shouldn't demand your complete payment upfront. If a mover has a long history of bad reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. The FMCSA details mover rights and responsibilities of which you should be aware.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Reserving your movers far enough ahead of time is critical for a successful long-distance move. We suggest scheduling your move at least three months beforehand, or even earlier if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. You probably have valuable, sentimental, or fragile belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than in the moving truck.

We also advise making a checklist of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Texas DMV.

Put together necessities for the first couple of days of your move, such as toiletries, extra clothes, and medications.

The night before moving day, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged during your move. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable belongings (typically those valued at over $100 a pound), for some moving companies. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get greater coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it gives less protection. If you choose this insurance, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are damaged or lost.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy after you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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