10 best long-distance moving companies in El Paso, TX

There are many importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. If you’re moving interstate or long-distance, you may deal with higher costs, complicated logistics, and concerns like how to move your car.

Ease your issues by hiring the best moving professionals for the job. We've compiled this guide to the leading long-distance movers in El Paso so you, your loved ones, and your belongings arrive to your new home safely.

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 keep in mind. The main difference between local and long-distance movers is the distance they're willing to cover. Local movers usually only operate within a certain geographic area and will charge an exorbitant rate to work outside it if they're willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically set fees based on the weight of your items, while local moving companies are more likely to set fees based on how long a job takes. Keep in mind that certain moving companies might incorporate both weight and time in their quotes, so ask your specific movers about their pricing structure.

Local El Paso moving companies are generally more familiar with moving in your area and offer lower pricing. Long-distance movers offer valuable knowledge and expertise, especially when relocating to another state. 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 El Paso

When you're selecting a long-distance moving company, the wide range of choices can feel overwhelming. To help you navigate the process of picking a legitimate and reliable long-distance mover in El Paso, we've gathered some guidance below.

• Ask about insurance: The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires interstate movers to provide two types of insurance coverage: Full Value Protection and Released Value Protection. You can look into these or other options for long-distance moves within the same state. In addition to the insurance options carried by your mover, purchasing your own moving insurance will give you full protection for your belongings. We discuss long-distance moving insurance choices in more detail below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must have a USDOT number and be registered with the FMCSA. Qualified providers will have these qualifications. The FMCSA publishes complaint histories for moving companies on its website and enforces policies such as requiring movers to supply clients with a written estimate.
• Compare costs: Start getting quotes several months before your move. For a thorough comparison, be sure to get detailed quotes from multiple long-distance movers in El Paso. As you compare quotes, make sure that they include costs for the physical move, insurance coverage, and any other services you might need.
• Look at financing options: To help with the financial aspect of your move, plenty of moving companies offer financing plans. You may be eligible for a moving or relocation loan to cover cost. Ask your moving company about financing plans or relocation loans if you need financial help with your move. Researching several loans allows you to select the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can see what others thought about particular long-distance movers by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and similar online review websites. You should also ask friends and loved ones for 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 for moves. This can make it harder and costlier to hire a moving company. El Paso also has a lot of college students living in the area, so the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy because of students moving.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that provide “too good to be true” estimates or nonbinding estimates. You should also be cautious of a mover that asks for your full payment upfront. Avoid movers that have a history of bad reviews or BBB complaints. You should be familiar with your mover rights and responsibilities, as outlined by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A useful piece of advice when planning a long-distance move is to book your moving company well in advance of your move date. It's best if you plan your move at least 90 days 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 specific services, like piano moving or car moving.

When packing for your move on your own, get started at least four weeks in advance. You probably have valuable, fragile, or sentimental belongings, such as plants or family heirlooms, that you would prefer to have in your car rather than in the moving truck.

Write a list of everything that needs to be done both before and after your move. The list should include things such as updating your address with the Texas DMV.

Pack essentials for the first few days, such as medicine, extra clothes, and toothbrushes.

Lastly, make sure to get enough rest the night before your big move.

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

Moving insurance is necessary for long-distance moves. It'll protect you if any 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 repair, replace, or provide a cash settlement for any belongings lost or damaged while moving. Some movers might not cover very expensive items (usually those worth more than $100 per pound) under this policy. You have to pay more for Full Value Protection, but in the long-run you'll get greater coverage. While Released Value Protection is offered at no additional cost, it has less protection. With this option, your moving company will compensate you up to 60 cents per pound for damaged or lost items.

If you carry over your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy when you move, it may cover some of your belongings during your move. While this usually doesn't apply to long-distance moves, it might be a good idea to check your policy.

Sources

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