Best Moving Companies in Texas
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Texas is a state rich with opportunity across its nearly 300,000 square miles. It’s no wonder that major Lone Star State cities, including Dallas and Austin, have seen so many new homeowners arrive in search of a fresh start. However, finding a professional mover to help you get there may be a less exciting aspect.
We conducted in-depth research on the best moving companies in Texas to help you eliminate some of the hassles of the moving process. From interviewing industry experts and surveying thousands of previous moving customers, we determined that International Van Lines is the best all-around mover in Texas. The company provides one of the most robust selections of moving services, including options for specialty services for antiques and other difficult items and custom insurance plans.
Texas’ Top Moving Companies of 2024
Here are the best moving companies in Texas based on service offerings, specialty options, and industry reputations:
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Side-By-Side Comparison: Best Movers in Texas
Based on analyzing each provider’s insurance options, quote process, specialty services, and reputation with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), we find the following companies to be the best movers in Texas. See how they compare in the table below.
What Factors Affect the Cost of a Texas Move?
The primary factors that will affect the cost of an interstate move in Texas are the size of the shipment, the move distance, and the overall weight of the items. If you’re moving within the state, the bulk of your cost will also be based on the number of movers required and the hours worked. Remember to notify a mover of any difficult or unique items you own.
Here’s a breakdown of the factors that will affect your move’s cost:
Crew size: A larger moving crew will be required for bigger households, accelerating the loading and unloading process but increasing labor expenses proportionally.
Home layout: Residences with narrow corridors, multiple levels, or lack of direct parking access create logistical challenges that can prolong job duration and boost costs.
Hours: Moves taking longer than the standard eight-hour workday will incur additional hourly charges for the movers’ overtime.
Seasonal demand: Peak moving season from May through September typically sees higher pricing due to increased demand for moving services.
Specialty items: Oversize furniture, antiques, artwork, pianos, and other delicate or high-value items often require specialized packing materials and handling techniques involving supplemental fees.
Travel fees: Depending on the specific route, your move may be subject to state taxes, road tolls, and fuel surcharges based on changes in transportation costs.
How Should I Prepare for My Texas Move?
Here are the important steps to take when preparing for your Texas move:
- Make and inventory
Catalog all your possessions, paying particular attention to delicate and valuable items that necessitate specialized handling and packing. This comprehensive inventory will prove invaluable during the loading and unloading processes. - Research companies
Next, thoroughly research prospective moving companies, soliciting multiple written estimates to facilitate cost comparisons and identify the most suitable service provider. Determine whether you require temporary storage solutions in addition to transportation services. - Downsize
Declutter your residence, donating or selling any unnecessary items to streamline the packing process. For bulky or unwanted goods, arrange for professional junk removal services. - Gather important documents
Ensure that all essential documents, including birth certificates, passports, financial records, legal papers, and medical files, are securely gathered and carried during the move. This safeguards against loss or damage. - Update your info
Update all relevant personal information and registrations, such as voter rolls, vehicle registration and insurance, homeowners or renters insurance policies, and pet licenses, to reflect your new Texas address. A great place to start this step is with the U.S. Postal Service.
Our Recommendation for Texas Residents
If you have a long-distance Texas move, we recommend International Van Lines. Its personal moving coordinators provide a fully customized moving package tailored to your needs, including full-replacement coverage plans standard with all full-service packages.
If you have a city-to-city or local move in Texas, we suggest you look into North American Van Lines with its massive network of local movers and Texas-focused customer service department. If you just need your prized vehicle transported across The Lone Star State safely, we recommend you take a closer look at uShip.
We encourage you to obtain at least three quotes from different Texas movers and compare their service options carefully to find one that provides the moving experience you’re seeking.
Texas Moving Companies FAQ
How are moving companies regulated in Texas?
Moving companies in Texas are regulated by the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TXDMV). Get in touch with this organization to make sure your moving company is properly licensed.
How do I file a complaint about a mover in Texas?
If you have a complaint about your mover not complying with State of Texas regulations, you can file it with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles’ Complaint Management System.
How much do you tip movers in Texas?
A commonly followed practice is to tip 20% of the total cost of moving. It’s advisable to check the receipt to ascertain the exact amount each person contributed to the move before tipping them. If any movers provide exceptional service, you may consider tipping them more than the standard amount.
What should a moving estimate include?
A long-distance moving estimate should include the address of the moving company, the total distance of the move, a minimum weight and an estimated weight, the fees for service bought, the tariff price, any storage fees, fuel and toll surcharges, and insurance surcharges. A local Texas move estimate will replace distance and weight with the number of workers and estimated hours to complete the job.
How We Chose the Top Moving Companies in Texas
We researched and analyzed dozens of full- and self-service moving companies and formulated a moving review methodology based on a number of factors, including package options, pricing, and reputation. We also identified customer pain points based on customer-review analysis, proprietary consumer surveys, and interviews with former and current moving professionals.
Speaking directly to a representative at each company, we determined the number of package options available, the coverage provided, the types of moves available (long-distance, local, and international), and any extra perks offered, such as mobile apps, moving checklists, and 24/7 customer service.
We also gathered pricing data from each of the companies and determined whether they provide ballpark estimates or binding quotes. To determine reputation, we evaluated companies based on their rating with the Better Business Bureau as well as their overall score on Yelp.