The new year may bring fresh job opportunities, the start of a family, or just the desire to change the environment in a faraway location.
…and for those with their eyes looking south, moving to or from Texas will not exactly be a typical "pack-up-and-go" operation.
Moving long distances is a major event requiring meticulous planning, razor-sharp execution, and an ability to adapt to the unexpected.
Unlike your average neighborhood hop, you can't just pop back to grab that forgotten coffee maker.
A move from Houston to Oklahoma will take at least 6 hours, while you may be on the road longer than 18 hours if you have to move to or from a place like Florida.
Once those truck wheels get into motion, there's almost always no turning back.
So, how about getting it right the first time?
Here, let's explore this guide on moving long-distance to or from Texas in 2025.
Texas is not just big in land size; it's also big on rules.
Whether you're headed to the Lone Star State or leaving it, here are a few key regulations and considerations to keep in mind:
All moving companies operating in Texas must have a TxDMV number. If your mover doesn't, it's an obvious red flag and your sign to choose another moving company.
Movers must also comply with federal regulations governed by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
In such instances, you should also look for a USDOT (U.S. Department of Transportation) number to confirm legitimacy.
Chances are slim that you are likely to exceed the weight limits, but if it does happen, be aware that Texas highways have specific weight limits for trucks.
Overloaded trucks may result in hefty fines for your mover, and these costs could eventually trickle down to you.
Single axle truck: Weight limit is 20,000 pounds
Tandem axle truck: The maximum weight is 34,000 pounds
Axles linked to the steering: The weight limit is 12,000 pounds
Early and strategic planning is the key to a successful long-distance move to or from Texas.
It's a good standard to start the process at least three months ahead of your moving date. That way you get to grasp the financial aspects of your move, the movers, and important documentation.
Here's a breakdown of what you need to organize ahead of your move:
Long-distance moves are not exactly cheap. With a place as vast as Texas, it will cost a bit more than average to cover those grounds.
So, you should expect average costs anywhere from $2,500 to $10,000. This depends on the distance, size of your household, and additional services like packing and storage.
Beyond verifying the credentials of your potential movers, choosing the right long distance mover for your move can also be determined by the quote they provide.
Request estimates from at least three licensed movers. It is good practice to be wary of quotes that are too low, as you may be hit with hidden charges later in the move process.
Another way to choose the right long-distance movers for your move is to ensure your moving company provides liability coverage.
Note: You may also want to get third-party insurance for high-value items.
Moving everything you own across state lines is pricey.
Here's how: many moving companies often cost such moves based on the weight of your belongings. So, your planning stage is a good opportunity to purge what you don't need.
Donate, sell, or recycle items to lighten your load and save money.
When moving long distances, documents like passports, IDs, and other relevant paperwork like contracts, financial documents, and records can easily get thrown around and eventually misplaced.
To avoid this, gather these essential documents in one place and keep them where you can readily access them.
It may be best to carry them on your person rather than pack them among your belongings, where they can easily get lost.
Knowing how to prepare for a long distance move to or from Texas involves knowing what you can or can't take along with you.
Texas has some fairly strict restrictions on what movers may or may not be able to transport.
Here's a quick checklist:
Hazardous materials like propane tanks, paint, or anything flammable — can't!
Perishable goods such as food, plants, or anything likely to spoil over the long haul — can't!
Note:
If you are moving large items like boats or RVs, you may need permits for transport on Texas roads.
One of the best pieces of advice you will probably receive on how to move long distances without stressing yourself too much is to engage the extra services of movers like packing and loading.
While it's reasonable to pay extra for loading, you should pack your belongings yourself. This way, you will know exactly where your things are.
Some simple tips for you:
Use quality packing materials, such as a sturdy box whose bottom won't give way mid-move.
For fragile items, double-box them for protection or wrap them in towels before packing.
When boxes go hundreds (or thousands) of miles, labels are your best friend. Include not just the room they belong to but also the contents.
Moreover, you should pack an essential bag that includes items like:
Toiletries
A few days' change of clothes
Chargers, laptops, and phones
Any essential medication
Bedding like linens and blankets
Towels
Snacks
Other important items to pack include cleaning supplies, basic tools like screwdrivers, kids' and pets' essentials like toys and pet food.
When moving long distances, it's important to take inventory of everything you are moving.
Helpful tips you might to have handy include:
Double-check your inventory before the week of your move to keep things running smoothly on the big day.
Ensure all items on your inventory list get accounted for before loading the truck.
Communicate with your movers before the move. Provide clear instructions about where to park, items that need special handling, and any timing considerations.
Also, inspect the truck to ensure it's clean and secure before loading. You don't want some liquid or water to soil your things or insects to infest your load.
Remember that long-distance moves can come with delays. Build a buffer into your schedule to accommodate unforeseen hiccups.
When moving long distances, there will be some differences between the two places you move between.
While some of these changes may be subtle, others will tend to be a little more pronounced.
For new Texans, Texas has unpredictable weather:
Be prepared for anything from blazing heat to sudden storms. You should also familiarize yourself with toll road systems like TxTag and regional traffic patterns.
For the Texans moving out, expect some culture shock (barbecue evenings may not be a thing):
Whether you are heading to a quieter state or a bustling city, adjusting to life outside Texas can be a transition. Give yourself time to adapt.
Moving long distance to or from Texas might seem like a daunting task, but with the right planning and preparation, it doesn't even have to be.
By understanding the regulations, planning, and choosing the right movers, you'll be on that highway in no time, saying, 'Out with the old and in with the new.'
So, pack up your gazillion memories and begin your Texas-sized move.
Good luck!
