10 best movers in Plano, Texas

The best mover for moving out of Texas is International Van Lines. For a local move around Plano, use the filters below to find other moving companies that meet your needs.

Long-distance movers in Plano

A long-distance move is when you relocate over 50 miles away or move to another state. When moving across state boundaries, check that your moving company has the proper federal licensing. Interstate movers must have United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) and Motor Carrier (MC) numbers. Input these numbers or the mover's name into the FMCSA's database to verify a carrier's licensing status.

We've verified that the long-distance moving companies below have an active license. They can help get your belongings to your new home safely and smoothly.

Featured

4.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Includes one month of storage with long-distance moves
• Lists add-on service costs online
• Services all 50 states

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4.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Operates exclusively as a carrier
• Runs shuttles for moves between major cities
• Offers storage for high-value items and antiques

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3.7

Our Rating

Ratings are based on our detailed proprietary methodology and review standards.

• Offers flat rates for all long-distance moves
• Has secure storage facilities with 24/7 surveillance
• Includes packing and storage in all quotes

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Why is moving so expensive?

Moving within or out of Plano is fairly expensive, as the average hourly moving rate is higher than the national average. The higher moving rates make sense as the cost of living in Plano is above 91.8% of the country.

Many factors are involved in moving, causing expenses adding up fast. Typical moving expenses include the following:

• Professional labor
• Fuel
• Packing
• Storage
• Supplies
• Junk removal

These extra factors can add even more to your total cost:

Transporting specialty items

When hiring a moving companiy, you may have to pay extra for moving valuable, fragile or oversized items. The following items commonly cost more to move:

• Safes
• Family heirlooms or antiques
• Heavy pieces of furniture or technology
• Pianos
• Artwork and sculptures

Ask movers if they move these items and charge additional fees for them.

Tipping your movers

Tipping your movers is optional but common if they provide good service. Consider tipping each mover $20–$40 per day for long-distance moves and $5–$10 per hour for local moves.

Unexpected delays

Delays happen. Transportation emergencies, traffic, limited supplies and bad weather can all add time and money to your move. There’s no way to combat delays, but you can prepare for them by having a flexible schedule and allocating 25% more than your movers quote you to your budget.

How to save money on moving costs

Consider these ways to reduce moving expenses in Plano.

Be communicative

Avoid surprise charges the day of your move by being as communicative with your movers as possible. Inform them of additional items that weren’t in the initial inventory.

While your movers can usually accommodate small items without a problem, larger pieces such as new furniture or appliances should be discussed before the move. Additional fees may apply for large items, and your movers won’t start the move until you’ve consented to the charges.

Have a flexible schedule

Reliable, budget-friendly movers are in high demand. Consider moving in the off-season or on a weekday to reduce costs and still book your preferred moving company.

Most people book movers from May through September. You may find less competition and lower moving rates if your timeline is flexible and you can plan your move outside of those months.

Consider alternatives to professional movers

Consider taking an alternative route if you have difficulty finding an economical moving provider that works for you.

Move yourself is one option. Before choosing this route, consider the labor required and the following costs:

• Fuel
• Moving truck rental
• Packing supplies

You may also need to ask friends, family or neighbors for help loading and unloading large or heavy items such as furniture. Professional movers are a worthwhile investment if you don’t have the time or support to commit to moving yourself.

Another option is to find movers on service marketplaces such as Thumbtack or Fiverr. Hiring hourly help can be more affordable, but gig workers may not have proper licensing or insurance.

FAQ about moving in Plano

What’s full-service moving?

Full-service moving is when your movers tackle all aspects of the moving process for you. They provide packing supplies, provide packing services for your belongings, transport them and unpack them.

Standard moving services cost less than full-service moving, as they typically only include loading and moving your belongings. However, full-service moving can be a justifiable expense when you factor in the time, labor and packing supplies you'll save. Additionally, full-service moving can get you more comprehensive insurance coverage, as self-packed goods are usually only protected up to 60 cents per dollar, and it can be difficult to get a claim accepted for self-packed damaged items.

How do you know a mover is licensed?

All legitimate moving companies will show proof of registration on their transport trucks, as well as on paperwork like estimates and agreements. If you're planning an interstate move, confirm the company's USDOT and MC numbers on the official FMCSA website. Moving companies in Texas are also required to have a license from the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.

How does moving insurance work?

Learn what insurance policies your movers provide. All movers should offer released-value coverage, which pays 60 cents per pound per item. If you're moving high-value items, request information on your mover's full-value protection policies. Purchasing this supplementary coverage will cost more, but may be worth it if you're moving expensive or irreplaceable items.

When is the best time of year to move?

The peak time to move ranges across May through September, resulting in lower supply and heightened pricing nationwide for relocations of all kinds. The steep rates may dissuade you from a summer move. Moreover, you may wish to avoid relocating in the summer given Plano's scorching heat, which could further complicate a move.

We recommend moving in the spring or early fall seasons when you can expect more favorable weather and lower costs.

What things should I leave to the movers, and what should I transport myself?

For peace of mind, move items like identification documents, financial records and photo albums in your own car. Similarly, load up your vehicle with any high-end electronics that you wouldn't want lost or damaged.

Many moving companies cap insurance coverage for high-value items, such as jewelry and heirlooms. If you're worried about possible loss or damage, keep those invaluable or irreplaceable belongings in your own car.

Most movers refuse to transport certain items, including these:

• Batteries
• Plants
• Perishable foods and produce
• Fertilizers
• Flammable chemicals of any kind
• Fuel sources
• Compressed tanks or gas
• Aerosols
• Toxic chemicals or cleaners

Our methodology for selecting moving companies

The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.

We review national moving providers against our full moving methodology. We score movers based on reputation and customer experience, service availability, cost and pricing practices, insurance options, customer service and communication.