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

There are a variety of importantfactors that differentiate long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance struggle with concerns such as how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

Ease your worries by picking the best movers for the job. To help make sure you, your loved ones, and your belongings get to your new home without incident, we've created this list of the best long-distance movers in The Woodlands.

What Makes Long-Distance Movers Different From Local Movers?

Local and long-distance movers differ in a few ways. Local moving companies only work within a specific geographic area and frequently charge a significantly higher fee for moves beyond their standard service area if they agree to such jobs at all.

Local moving companies are also more likely to charge based on time, while long-distance moving companies more likely to set fees based on the weight. Keep in mind that some movers might use both weight and time in their estimates, so ask your chosen movers about their pricing structure.

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

With so many long-distance movers to choose from, the options can be overwhelming, making it difficult to select the right one for you. To help you navigate the process of finding a licensed and reliable long-distance moving company in The Woodlands, we've gathered some guidance below.

• 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. You can look into these or other insurance options for long-distance moves inside one state. We also recommend purchasing your own moving insurance to completely protect your possessions. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance choices, we've provided a more detailed discussion below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate moving companies must be registered with the FMCSA and must have a USDOT number. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as mandating that movers provide a written price quote, and also publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in The Woodlands 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 use.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, quite a few moving companies offer financing options. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong strategy to help cover cost. Ask 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 pick the one with the best rates and fewest fees.
• Read reviews: Check Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review sites to find out what others have said about specific long-distance moving companies. You should also ask friends and loved ones for recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most common season to move in, it can be difficult and more expensive to book a moving company. The Woodlands also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the semesters may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Movers that provide nonbinding or seemingly "too good to be true" estimates should make you wary. You should also be cautious of a moving company that asks for your entire payment before the move. If a mover has a history of poor reviews or BBB complaints, it's best to avoid them. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Booking your moving company well before your move date is key when preparing for a long-distance move. It's best if you plan your move at least three months ahead of time. This gives you plenty of time to hire a moving company. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need more specialized services, like piano or car moving.

If you decide to pack for your move yourself, we suggest getting started a month in advance. When it comes to fragile, sentimental, or valuable items, such as plants or family heirlooms, you may choose to carry them in your car rather than the mover's truck.

Writing a checklist of all the things that need to be done both 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 a toothbrush and toothpaste, medications, and extra clothes.

The night before your move, make sure you get a good night’s sleep.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is a must for long-distance moves. It'll cover the cost if any of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to provide two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide money back for any belongings 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 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 is offered at no additional cost, it has less protection. This insurance requires your movers to pay you a maximum of 60 cents per pound for belongings lost or damaged 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. While this typically doesn't apply to long-distance moves, checking your policy could be beneficial.

Sources

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