10 best long-distance moving companies in Rowlett, TX

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

Hiring the right moving professionals can help lessen your problems. To help make sure you, your family members, and your belongings reach your new home without incident, we've compiled this overview of the leading long-distance movers in Rowlett.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance moving companies differ in a few ways. Local moving companies generally offer moving services within a designated geographic location. They either won't work outside that area, or they'll charge a significant fee to do so.

Long-distance movers are also more likely to set fees based on the weight of your belongings, while local moving companies are more likely to charge by time. Some moving companies may use a mix of time and weight when calculating their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

When faced with an interstate move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. Although local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer less expensive rates, the expertise that long-distance movers have in taking on interstate moves is invaluable. Long-distance movers are more likely to have the relevant 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 Rowlett

When you're picking a long-distance mover, the wide variety of options can feel overwhelming. Below, we offer some recommendations on how to find a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in Rowlett.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must offer customers two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves within the same state, inquiring about these or similar options is a good idea. We also suggest getting your own moving insurance to better protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable mover. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers supply clients with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving providers in Rowlett several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. As you compare quotes, confirm that they include prices for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you might use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers afford their moving expenses. You may be able to get a moving or relocation loan to help cover cost. Talk with your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple loans to make sure you find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar platforms to learn what others think about particular long-distance moving companies. Neighbors and relatives can also provide valuable 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 costlier to get a mover. Rowlett also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that offer nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you cautious. You should also be wary of a mover that asks for your full payment upfront. If a mover has an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A key piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to book your moving company well in advance of your move date. We suggest scheduling movers at least three months before your move date, or even farther ahead if you need unique moving services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move on your own, we recommend starting a month ahead of time. You probably have fragile, valuable, or sentimental belongings, such as electronics or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Writing 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 couple of days in your new home, such as medications, extra clothes, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

The night before your move, make sure you get plenty of rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is incredibly important for long-distance moves because it'll pay you back if any of your belongings are lost or damaged.

All interstate movers need to provide two insurance options, according to the FMCSA. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any possessions lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain items that are extremely valuable (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some moving companies. Full Value Protection is pricier but offers greater coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it gives less coverage. This plan requires your movers to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for items lost or damaged during the move.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over 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