Local Moving (under 50 miles)

Find a cheap moving company near Houston, TX

Find a cheap moving company near Houston, TX

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Top 10 Cheap Moving Companies near Houston, TX

Q & A

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Thumbtack.

How much do movers cost in Houston?

The top movers in Houston cost approximately $70 to over $100 per hour. However, your cost will vary depending on how many miles your move is, how many movers are necessary and the time of year when the move is taking place. Moving during peak seasons and days will most likely cost more, depending on the moving company.

How do I choose the best moving company in Houston?

Comparing the top moving companies in Houston is your first step toward choosing the best movers for your move. Identify the top-rated companies and compare prices, reviews and services offered. Look for reviews that mention whether the movers showed up on time or didn’t let the weather interfere with the schedule. Houston frequently receives heavy rain, so your mover should be prepared.

To help ensure you have the best experience, read Thumbtack’s smart hiring guide, which offers tips for finding the best professionals. The Top Pro badge also provides a quick means of locating movers in the top 4% of ratings.

Where can you get cheap moving boxes?

There are plenty of places you can go to find cheap moving boxes. If you want new boxes, start with large chain retailers that sell moving supplies. However, you can also find cheap or even free deals by heading to other locations. 

Liquor stores receive their merchandise in boxes and may be willing to donate them to you. Grocery stores, bookstores, pet stores and department stores all receive boxes as well. Just remember to always ask for permission before you take any boxes from retailers and stores. 

You can also head to your recycling center to see if there are any boxes available. Or, go online to see if anyone in your neighborhood is trying to get rid of boxes.

Where can you buy cheap moving supplies?

It’s a wise move to try and save money on moving supplies. If you’re after cheap boxes, blankets, mattress covers and other moving supplies, start by looking online. Some sites allow people to post free or cheap items they no longer need, and moving supplies are frequently on the list. There are also services that sell used cardboard boxes and more. If all else fails, head to your local department store or ask your moving company if they sell supplies.

What is considered a local move vs. a long-distance move?

Local moves are among the most common moves. Unlike a long-distance move, a local move is typically less than 50 miles and does not cross state lines. Generally, a local move only takes one day, and movers tend to charge by the hour. 

The definition of a long-distance move may vary depending on the moving company. Generally, a long-distance considered to be any move of 400 miles or more. However, some say a long-distance move is over 50-100 miles. 

Local Move

A move under 50 miles

Long-Distance Move

A move over 50-100 miles or over 400 miles; may also be called an “interstate move” or “out-of-state move”

Out-of-State Move

A move that crosses state lines; may also be called an “interstate move” or “long-distance move”

Interstate Move

A move that crosses state lines; may also be called an “out-of-state move” or “long-distance move”

Intrastate Move

A move that begins and ends in the same state, typically beyond 50 miles

Interstate moves require additional legal preparation and will incur additional costs for distance, the amount and weight of your items, the preparation required and various other factors. Moving companies tend to do an initial weighing of the truck, which you should be present for.

A move that crosses state lines is considered an interstate move or an out-of-state move. Contrast this with an intrastate move, which begins and ends in the same state, but is typically above 50 miles. 

To determine whether your move is local or long-distance, contact the best movers in your area.

 

 

How do I choose the best long-distance moving company in Houston?

To find the best long-distance moving companies in Houston, look for a company that can manage the sweltering heat of the Houston area. They should also have experience and a strong reputation. Read their reviews and double-check their references to ensure you’re not hiring long-distance movers with a history of leaving unhappy customers in their wake.

In order to operate legally within Houston, they need to be licensed with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.

After you’ve identified the most qualified long-distance movers for your move, reach out to all of them. Give them details about your upcoming, and ask for several estimates before hiring a long-distance mover.

Do I need a parking permit for my moving truck in Houston?

If you have a moving truck or storage containers, obtaining a Houston parking permit might save you from a costly parking ticket. Houston’s parking permits webpage provides links to the forms that might be applicable to you.

But if you choose to work with a local moving company in Houston, they might be able to help you navigate the permit requirements in Houston.

How much does it cost to move across the country from Houston?

The price you’ll pay to move across the country from Houston will depend on how the moving company decides to calculate the price. For example, moving from Houston to Seattle or moving from Houston to Chicago might be a little less than moving from Houston to Boston because of the shorter trip. 

Contact the top movers in Houston to get a personalized estimate for your cross-country move.

What is considered a long-distance move in Houston?

A long-distance move is generally a move of a least 100 miles, though some companies may classify long-distance moves as 400 miles or more.

Many out-of-state moves are considered long-distance moves, but it’s possible to move long-distance within one state — especially Texas because of its size. Some examples of long-distance moves from Houston are: 

  • Moving from Houston to Dallas
  • Moving from Houston to Austin
  • Moving from Houston to San Antonio

Moving to popular, out-of-state cities like Chicago, Seattle, Atlanta, New York and Denver are also considered long-distance moves.

For more information about what qualifies as a long-distance move, contact the top movers in Houston.

What is considered a local move in Houston?

A local move in Houston may include popular areas like Sugar Land, The Woodlands or Cypress. Local moving companies can also help you with a move to Houston suburbs like Pearland, Humble or Alvin. 

On the other hand, moving from Houston to Austin may require a long-distance moving company. Likewise, if you’re moving from Houston to Dallas, you will likely want to hire long-distance movers, as they may be better equipped to help with a smooth move.

To get help with your move, contact the best movers in Houston.

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