7 best long-distance moving companies in Port Arthur, TX

Long-distance or interstate moves differ from local moves in many ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against concerns such as how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

The right moving company can help put your mind at ease. We've compiled this guide to the best long-distance movers in Port Arthur so you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies are different in a few ways. Local movers only offer services within a specific geographic radius and often charge a significantly higher rate for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to such jobs at all.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance moving companies commonly set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies typically set fees based on the time needed for your move. Some moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when calculating their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your chosen provider.

Local Port Arthur movers may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance moving companies can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the proper information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Port Arthur

With so many long-distance moving companies to choose from, the options can be overwhelming, making it difficult to pick the right one for your needs. Below, we have compiled some recommendations on how to choose a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in Port Arthur.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage types: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other insurance options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. We also recommend getting your own moving insurance to completely protect your belongings. You can find more detailed information about long-term moving insurance choices below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers provide a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Port Arthur several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you'll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, many moving companies have financing plans. You may be able to take out a moving or relocation loan to help pay for some of the cost. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. Looking into several choices allows you to select the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what previous clients have said about specific long-distance movers. Also, ask for recommendations from your neighbors and loved ones.
• 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 more expensive to book a mover. Because there are so many college students living in Port Arthur, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Legitimate movers generally won't ask for your complete payment before the move. Avoid movers with a history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A helpful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to schedule your moving company well in advance of your move date. It's best if you schedule your move at least three months beforehand. This gives you plenty of 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 on your own, we advise starting a month in advance. When it comes to fragile, valuable, or sentimental belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may opt to carry them in your car rather than having them packed in the mover's truck.

Make a list of all the tasks that need to be done both before and after your move. The list should include items such as updating your address with the Texas DMV.

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

Finally, make sure to get enough rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is crucial for long-distance moves. It'll provide reimbursement if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers must provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers are required to repair, replace, or provide a cash reimbursement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain extremely valuable possessions (generally those valued at over $100 per pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get more coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it has less protection. With this insurance, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for lost or damaged possessions.

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