10 best long-distance moving companies in Texas City, TX

There are a variety of importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving long-distance, you may be dealing with complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns such as how to move your car.

Hiring the right movers can help ease your worries. We've made this guide to the leading long-distance movers in Texas City so you, your family, and your possessions arrive to your new home without any problems.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

When you're comparing local and long-distance moving companies, there are several key differences to be aware of. Local moving companies generally provide moving services within a designated geographic radius. 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 set fees based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight they're moving. However, some providers use a mix of time and weight to set their prices, so be sure to talk to your specific provider about its prices.

When faced with a long-distance move, it's important to weigh the benefits of hiring long-distance versus local moving companies. While local movers may have a better grasp of your specific area and potentially offer more affordable rates, the knowledge and experience that long-distance movers have in handling interstate moves is indispensable. Long-distance moving companies can be especially valuable for interstate moves. These companies are more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of a long-distance move.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Texas City

Hiring the right long-distance mover is important, and the options may be overwhelming. See the list below for some advice on picking a licensed and reliable long-distance mover in Texas City.

• Ask about insurance: According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), interstate movers must provide customers with two insurance coverage choices: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. For long-distance moves within the same state, inquiring about these or similar insurance options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance coverage carried by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you better protection for your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance options, 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 gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers supply a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Reach out to several long-distance moving companies in Texas City several months before your move and get detailed quotes. Confirm that these quotes include costs for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: Many movers provide financing plans as a way to help customers pay for their moving expenses. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial assistance for your move. You should compare multiple options to make sure you get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read online reviews on sites such as Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other platforms to learn what others have said about specific long-distance moving companies. You should also ask friends and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be difficult and more expensive to book a mover.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding quote is a red flag. Additionally, legitimate movers shouldn’t request the full payment upfront. If a moving company has an extensive history of poor 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 valuable piece of advice for long-distance moves is to hire your movers far enough in advance. To ensure a stress-free move, schedule your movers no less than three months before your move date, and potentially even more if you need specific services, like piano or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. You might choose to keep certain fragile, sentimental, or valuable items, such as electronics and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

We also recommend 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.

Make sure you're not without essentials in the first few days of your move by packing a suitcase with items such as medicine, extra clothes, and a toothbrush and toothpaste.

Lastly, on the night before your move, make sure you get enough rest.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to offer two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must repair, replace, or provide money back for any items lost or damaged while moving. This policy may not apply to certain extremely valuable items (typically those valued at over $100 per pound), for some movers. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection doesn't cost you anything, but it has less coverage. With this option, your moving company will reimburse you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost belongings.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you carry over the same policy. This usually isn’t the case for long-distance moves, but it may be worth checking your policy.

Sources

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