10 best long-distance moving companies in San Antonio, TX

There are a range of importantfactors that distinguish long-distance or interstate moves from local moves. When you're moving between states, you may be worried about complicated logistics, higher costs, and concerns such as how to move your car.

The right moving company can help put your mind at ease. We've compiled this overview of the top long-distance movers in San Antonio so you, your family, and your belongings make it 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 consider. Local movers often only work within a certain geographic area. They'll frequently charge an exorbitant rate to work outside that circle if they’re willing to at all.

Another benefit of choosing a long-distance moving company is that they typically charge based on the weight of your items, while local movers are more likely to charge based on time. Some moving companies, however, may use a combination of time and weight to calculate their prices, so it's important to discuss your provider's pricing structure.

Local San Antonio moving companies may have a more knowledge of your specific area and provide less expensive services, but their experience with interstate moves is most likely limited. Long-distance movers can save you time and headaches because they're more likely to have the right information and experience to help with the logistics and legalities of interstate moves.

How To Choose a Long-Distance Mover in San Antonio

Picking the right long-distance moving company in San Antonio requires research to make sure the company meets your needs and works within your budget. Here are some tips for finding a reliable long-distance mover in San Antonio.

• 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 ask about these or similar options for long-distance moves that don't cross state lines. To completely protect your possessions during the move, we suggest obtaining personal moving insurance on top of the coverage offered by your mover. To help you better understand your long-term moving insurance coverage, we've provided a more detailed explanation below.
• Assess qualifications: Moving companies performing interstate moves must be registered with the FMCSA and have a USDOT number. This registration gives you peace of mind that a qualified company is taking care of your move. The FMCSA enforces certain rules, such as requiring movers to provide a written price quote, and also publishes moving companies' complaint histories on its website.
• Compare costs: Start asking for estimates several months before your move. Reach out to multiple long-distance moving providers in San Antonio and ask for itemized quotes. As you compare quotes, confirm 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, quite a few moving companies offer financing plans. A moving or relocation loan can cover cost. Ask your mover about relocation loans or financing plans if you need financial help with your move. You should compare multiple loans to make sure you choose the one with the best rates and lowest fees.
• Read reviews: You can find out what others thought about specific long-distance moving companies by checking Better Business Bureau (BBB) and other online review websites. Neighbors and loved ones can also provide valuable recommendations.
• Think about timing: If you plan on moving during the summer months, keep in mind that summer is the most popular time of year to move. This can make it harder and costlier to get a moving company. Because there are so many college students living in San Antonio, the beginning and end of the school year may be particularly busy as students move.
• Watch out for red flags: Be wary of movers that provide “too good to be true” prices or nonbinding estimates. Reliable movers generally shouldn't demand your complete payment upfront. Steer clear of movers that have an extensive history of negative reviews or BBB complaints. You should be aware of your mover rights and responsibilities, as described by the FMCSA.

Long-Distance Moving Tips

A good piece of advice for long-distance moves is to schedule your movers far enough ahead of time. It's best if you schedule your move at least three months beforehand. This gives you enough time to hire movers. You may even want to start planning earlier than that if you need unique services, like piano or car moving.

Start packing a full four weeks in advance if you plan on packing for your move on your own. You might choose to keep certain fragile, sentimental, or valuable items, such as plants and family heirlooms, with you in your car rather than in the moving truck.

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

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

Moving Insurance for Long-Distance Moves

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

The FMCSA requires all interstate movers to have two insurance options. The first, Full Value Protection, requires movers to replace, repair, or provide a cash reimbursement for any items lost or damaged during your move. Some movers might not cover very expensive belongings (usually those worth more than $100 a pound) under 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 has less protection. If you choose this plan, your movers will pay you up to 60 cents per pound for items that are damaged or lost.

If you keep your same homeowners insurance or renters insurance policy during your move, it may partially cover 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