8 best long-distance moving companies in Pharr, TX

There are several factors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may encounter complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns such as how to move your car.

The right moving company can help alleviate your issues. We've created this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Pharr so you, your family, and your belongings get to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

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

Long-distance moving companies are also more likely to charge based on the weight of your belongings, while local movers are more likely to charge by time. Some movers, however, may use a combination of time and weight to calculate their prices, so it's important to check your provider's pricing structure.

Local Pharr moving companies are usually more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers bring valuable knowledge and experience, especially when relocating to another state. Selecting a long-distance mover for an interstate move gives you the benefit of the necessary 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 Pharr

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the choices can be overwhelming, making it difficult to pick the right one for you. Here are some tips for picking a legitimate, reliable long-distance moving company in Pharr.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves within the same state, asking about these or similar options is a good idea. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance options in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is handling your move. The FMCSA enforces certain regulations, such as mandating that movers provide a written estimate, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Pharr several months before your move and request detailed quotes. Estimates 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: Plenty of movers offer financing options to help you pay for your move. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial assistance for your move. Researching several loans allows you to find the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what others have said about particular long-distance moving companies. Also, ask for recommendations from your friends and family.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means movers may be harder to get and more expensive if you’re moving between May and September. Since Pharr is home to so many college students, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that provide “too good to be true” quotes or nonbinding prices. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your full payment upfront. Steer clear of movers that have an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. Familiarize yourself with the FMCSA's guidelines on your mover rights and responsibilities.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to book your moving company well before of your move date. It's best if you schedule your move at least 90 days beforehand. This gives you enough time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need specialized services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we recommend getting started a month beforehand. You probably have fragile, sentimental, or valuable belongings, such as artwork or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than packed in the moving truck.

To stay organized, write a detailed list of all the necessary tasks before and after your move, such as notifying the Texas DMV of your new address.

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

The night before moving day, remember to get a good night's sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies might not cover belongings that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. Although Full Value Protection is more expensive, it gives you better coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it gives you reduced coverage. If you choose this plan, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are lost or damaged.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy when you move. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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