10 best long-distance moving companies in The Colony, TX

Long-distance or interstate moves are different from local moves in severalsignificant ways. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against challenges like how to move their car, as well as complicated logistics and higher costs.

The right moving professionals can help relieve your worries. We've made this guide to the top long-distance movers in The Colony so you, your family, and your possessions get to your new home safely.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Moving companies that specialize in long-distance moves differ from those that only do local moves. Local moving companies only work within a specific geographic area and usually charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service radius if they agree to these requests at all.

Local movers are also more likely to charge based on time, while long-distance movers more likely to charge based on the weight. Certain moving companies may use a combination of time and weight when calculating their final cost, so make sure to discuss pricing with your specific provider.

Local The Colony moving companies are commonly more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and experience, particularly when moving between states. Long-distance movers 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 The Colony

Finding the right long-distance mover in The Colony requires research to make sure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. To help you navigate the process of picking a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in The Colony, we've collected some guidance below.

• 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. For long-distance moves within the same state, inquiring about these or similar insurance options is a good idea. In addition to the insurance options provided by your mover, getting 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: Movers performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration serves as an indication that you're working with a reputable company. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers give clients a written estimate, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start requesting quotes several months before your move. Ask for itemized quotes from several long-distance movers in The Colony. Quotes should include an itemized list with prices for the actual move, insurance coverage, and any additional services you think you’ll use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies have financing options. A moving or relocation loan can help cover expenses. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare several options to make sure you find the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: Read Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review sites to see what others say about particular long-distance movers. You should also ask neighbors and relatives for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season for moves, it can be difficult and more expensive to get a moving company. Since The Colony is home to so many college students, June and August may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Moving companies that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" quotes should make you cautious. Trustworthy movers generally won't ask for your complete payment before the move. Avoid moving companies that have a 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 good piece of advice for long-distance moves is to find your movers far enough in advance. We suggest scheduling your move at least 90 days beforehand, or even earlier if you need specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move by yourself, we suggest getting started a month beforehand. You might prefer to keep certain valuable, sentimental, or fragile possessions, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

It's also important to make a checklist of everything that needs to be done before and after your move, such as updating your address with the Texas DMV.

Pack essentials for the first couple of days in your new home, such as extra clothes, medicine, and toothbrushes.

Lastly, make sure to get a full night’s sleep the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires that all interstate movers must offer two insurance options. Full Value Protection requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash settlement for any items lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover items that are very expensive (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under this policy. While Full Value Protection is pricier, it gives you more comprehensive coverage. Alternatively, Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less protection. If you choose this insurance, your movers will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are damaged or lost.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might partially cover your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy after you move. Checking your policy might be worthwhile, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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