10 best long-distance moving companies in Plano, TX

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in severalsignificant ways. When you're moving between states, you may be dealing with higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move your car.

Put your mind at ease by choosing the best movers for the job. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home safely, we've compiled this overview of the best long-distance movers in Plano.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are distinct in several ways. Local movers generally offer 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.

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

Local Plano 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. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves, which can save you time and headaches.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Plano

Choosing the right long-distance moving company in Plano requires research to ensure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. To help you navigate the process of finding a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Plano, we've collected some recommendations below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. Even if your long-distance move is within the same state, ask about the insurance options provided by your mover. We also suggest obtaining your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. You can find more detailed information on long-term moving insurance coverage below.
• Assess qualifications: Movers performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Reputable providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as requiring movers to give clients a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Plano several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Estimates should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies offer financing plans. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to pay for some of the expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. We advise looking into several loans to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what previous customers thought about certain long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Also, get recommendations from your neighbors and loved ones.
• Think about timing: Summer is the most popular time of year to move, which means movers may be harder to book and costlier if you’re moving during the summer months. Plano also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you cautious. Legitimate moving companies generally won't ask for your complete payment upfront. If a mover has a long history of negative 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

A helpful tip for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough in advance. We advise scheduling movers at least 90 days before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need specialized moving services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. When it comes to sentimental, valuable, or fragile items, such as electronics or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Creating 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.

Pack essentials for the first few days, such as toiletries, medicine, and extra clothes.

The night before moving day, make sure you get a full night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll protect you if some of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA mandates that all interstate movers must provide two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide money back for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable possessions (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more comprehensive coverage. While Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, it gives you less protection. This option requires your movers to pay 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 keep the same policy. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they usually don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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