10 best long-distance moving companies in Tyler, TX

Long-distance or interstate moves bring unique challenges that distinguish them from local moves. Many people moving interstate or long-distance come up against concerns like how to move their car, as well as higher costs and complicated logistics.

The right moving company can help ease your concerns. To help ensure you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive at your new home without incident, we've created this guide to the best long-distance movers in Tyler.

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 consider. Local moving companies generally offer 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.

When it comes to pricing, long-distance movers commonly charge based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies typically charge based on the length of time needed for your move. Some movers, however, may use a mix of time and weight to set their prices, so it's necessary to talk about your provider's pricing structure.

Local Tyler movers may have a more knowledge of your specific location and provide more affordable services, but their experience with interstate moves is probably limited. Long-distance movers can save you time and stress because they're more likely to have the relevant information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in Tyler

When you're picking a long-distance moving company, the wide range of options can feel overwhelming. See the list below for some tips on finding a legitimate and trustworthy long-distance moving company in Tyler.

• Ask about insurance: Interstate moving companies are required by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) to offer two types of options for insurance coverage to their customers: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other insurance options for long-distance moves within the same state. We also recommend obtaining your own moving insurance to fully protect your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance coverage in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Interstate movers must have a USDOT number and must be registered with the FMCSA. This registration gives you peace of mind that a reputable mover is taking care of your move. The FMCSA publishes movers’ complaint histories on its website and enforces rules such as mandating that movers provide customers with a written price quote.
• Compare costs: Contact several long-distance movers in Tyler several months before your move and ask for detailed quotes. Quotes should include an itemized list with costs 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, plenty of moving companies offer financing plans. If you need financial assistance for your move, a moving or relocation loan might be a strong choice to help with expenses. Ask your mover about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Looking into several options allows you to get the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others have said about particular long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. Friends and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: Because summer is the most popular season for moves, it can be challenging and more expensive to book a mover. Tyler also has a lot of college students living in the area, so June and August may be particularly busy due to students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: A moving company giving you a "too good to be true" or nonbinding estimate is a red flag. Additionally, legitimate moving companies shouldn’t demand the full payment upfront. Steer clear of movers with an extensive history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be knowledgeable about your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

Booking your moving company well before your move date is extremely important when preparing for a long-distance move. We recommend booking your move at least 90 days in advance, or even earlier if you need unique services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least a month in advance. When it comes to sentimental, valuable, or fragile 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 before and after your move. The list should include tasks such as updating your address with the Texas DMV.

Pack essentials for the first few days of your move, such as extra clothes, toiletries, and medicine.

Finally, make sure to get plenty of rest the night before moving day.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is essential for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any of your items are lost or damaged.

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. Under Full Value Protection, movers must replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some moving companies may exclude certain items that are extremely valuable (generally those valued at over $100 a pound) from this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but it will ultimately get you more coverage. The second option, Released Value Protection, is offered at no additional cost, but it provides less coverage. With this option, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items.

Your current homeowners or renters insurance policy might cover some of your belongings during the move if you keep the same policy during your move. It may be helpful to review your policy, even though they typically don't cover long-distance moves.

Sources

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