Best interstate movers in Texas
Texas is one of the most common interstate moving destinations in the country, drawing residents from California, Illinois, and other higher-cost, higher-tax states, with strong job growth in Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Houston.
National movers serving Texas
Every major national van line operates in Texas. Read real customer reviews before you book:
Typical Texas moving cost by home size
| Home size | Typical long-distance cost |
|---|---|
| Studio / 1 bedroom | $2,200–$4,000 |
| 2 bedroom | $3,500–$6,200 |
| 3 bedroom | $5,000–$8,500 |
| 4+ bedroom | $7,500–$12,000+ |
These reflect a typical 1,000+ mile move. Shorter regional moves cost meaningfully less — see our moving cost calculator for a number based on your exact origin and distance.
Texas cities we cover
Popular routes to and from Texas
Why people move to or from Texas
- No state income tax in Texas, unlike California
- Significantly lower housing costs and overall cost of living
- Strong job growth in Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Houston, especially in tech
- No state income tax in Texas, unlike Illinois
- Lower overall cost of living and property taxes
Climate to plan around
Texas summers run hotter and more humid than most of California, especially away from the coast — factor midday heat into loading and unloading if you're moving June through August.
Planning your Texas move
- Get 3+ written estimates at least 4-8 weeks out, more if moving during peak season (May–August).
- Verify your mover's USDOT/MC number on FMCSA SAFER before paying any deposit.
- Compare at least one full-service quote against DIY options if your move is under 500 miles, where the cost gap narrows.
- Budget time after arrival to register your vehicle and get a new driver's license — see the FAQ below for Texas's specific window.
How movers are regulated in Texas
Interstate movers — anyone crossing state lines into or out of Texas — are regulated federally by the FMCSA, exactly as in every other state. Verify a company's USDOT/MC number on FMCSA SAFER before booking. Movers operating only within Texas (intrastate) may have additional state-level requirements — see our full guide on verifying a USDOT/MC number.
Your first few weeks in Texas
Beyond the driver's license and vehicle registration deadline noted below, budget time early on to research local utility providers, register to vote if you plan to, and find a new doctor, dentist, or other regular providers if you don't already have ones in the area. See our first week in new home checklist and change of address checklist for the full rundown.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to move to or from Texas?
For a typical 2–3 bedroom household moving 1,000+ miles, expect roughly $5,000–$8,500 with a full-service mover; shorter regional moves cost less. Use our moving cost calculator for a number specific to your home size and distance.
Why do people move to or from Texas?
The most commonly cited reasons include: no state income tax in texas, unlike california; significantly lower housing costs and overall cost of living; strong job growth in austin, dallas-fort worth, and houston, especially in tech.
What's the best time of year to move to Texas?
Late fall through early spring generally avoids peak moving-season pricing (May–August is the busiest and most expensive time nationally). Book 4-8 weeks ahead regardless of season, more if moving during summer.
Does Texas require movers to have a special state license?
Interstate movers crossing into or out of Texas are regulated federally by the FMCSA, the same as in every other state — verify a company's USDOT/MC number before booking. Movers operating only within Texas (intrastate) may have additional state-level requirements.
Do I need to register my car after moving to Texas?
Texas generally requires new residents to register their vehicle and get a Texas driver's license within about 30 days of establishing residency.