Moving from New York to Texas

Road distances

Distances are approximate and depend on the route. Your mover's estimate will use its own mileage.

Leaving New York: access and paperwork

• Building rules. Many New York City buildings require a certificate of insurance (COI) from your mover and a reserved elevator time. Ask your building management for its requirements early and send them to every mover who quotes.
• Truck access. Large interstate trucks often cannot park on narrow city streets. Ask whether the price includes a shuttle to a smaller vehicle, or a long carry from the truck to your door.
• Moving day timing. End-of-month dates are in high demand across the city. A mid-month date can be easier to book.

Arriving in Texas

• Heat. Summer temperatures in Texas are high, and a closed trailer gets hotter. Carry heat-sensitive items such as electronics, medicines, candles and important documents with you.
• Vehicles and driver's licenses. New residents must register their vehicles and get a Texas driver's license within set deadlines. Check the current rules with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles and the Texas Department of Public Safety.
• Delivery window. On a route this long, movers usually give a delivery window rather than a single date. Get it in writing, and ask what happens if they miss it.

Before you book a mover for this move

1. Check the mover's federal registration. A move from New York to Texas crosses state lines, so the mover must be registered with the FMCSA. Here is how to check.
2. Get at least three written estimates, each based on a survey of your belongings, in person or by video.
3. Compare the same estimate type. Learn the difference between binding and non-binding estimates.
4. Choose your liability coverage on purpose. Released Value pays at most 60 cents per pound per article.
5. Know the warning signs. Read our list of moving scam red flags before you pay any deposit.