Moving from Maryland to Texas

A full-service move from Maryland to Texas across 1,446 miles typically costs between $3,300 for a studio or one-bedroom and $7,900 for a four-bedroom home or larger. The primary cost drivers are home size, total shipment weight, and the time of year you book. A two-to-three-bedroom move falls in the middle of that range at around $5,300. Call (855) 822-2722 for an itemized estimate based on your specific inventory.

Transit time on this 1,446-mile corridor depends on carrier availability, the size of your shipment, and the delivery window you select at booking. Your move coordinator will confirm a scheduled delivery window once your inventory and pickup date are set. Factors like seasonal demand and access at your destination address can also affect scheduling. Call (855) 822-2722 or request a quote online to discuss timing options for your move.

Texas requires new residents to obtain a Texas driver's license within 90 days of establishing residency. You can visit the Texas Department of Public Safety at dps.texas.gov to find the nearest driver's license office and review required documents. Vehicle registration must be completed within 30 days of establishing residency through TxDMV at txdmv.gov. Getting both updated promptly helps you avoid any compliance issues after your move.

Common additional charges on interstate moves include shuttle fees when a full-size moving truck cannot access your street or driveway, long-carry charges when the carry distance from the truck to your door exceeds 75 feet, stair fees for multi-floor homes, and elevator waiting time in apartment buildings. These charges are not hidden when you work with Star Van Lines - all applicable fees are disclosed in your written estimate before you book. Reviewing your inventory carefully at the estimate stage is the best way to avoid surprises on moving day. Ask your coordinator to walk through each line item so you understand exactly what is included.

A binding estimate locks your total price based on the inventory list you provide - you pay that agreed amount even if the actual shipment weight turns out to be different. A not-to-exceed estimate caps your price at the quoted figure but can come in lower if your shipment weighs less than projected. Both binding and not-to-exceed options are available through Star Van Lines, and your coordinator will explain which fits your situation best. Understanding the difference before you sign helps you choose the right protection for your budget.

Federal law requires interstate movers to offer two levels of valuation coverage. Released Value Protection is included at no additional charge and covers items at $0.60 per pound per article, which is minimal protection for high-value goods. Full Value Protection is a paid option that holds the mover responsible for the replacement value of lost or damaged items. Star Van Lines is fully insured under USDOT #4176875, and your coordinator will explain both options so you can choose the right level of coverage before your move.

Search USDOT number 4176875 on the FMCSA SAFER website at safer.fmcsa.dot.gov to confirm our operating authority, insurance status, and safety record. That federal database also displays our MC number 1607491, which confirms we hold active interstate carrier authority. Any legitimate interstate mover should be able to provide a verifiable USDOT number and MC number before you sign a contract. Checking these credentials takes only a few minutes and is the most reliable way to confirm a mover's legal standing.

The lower-demand window for this corridor runs October through April, when carrier availability is generally better and rates tend to be more flexible. Peak moving season runs May through September, when demand is highest and booking slots fill quickly. Spring and fall are particularly practical for this route - avoiding the intense summer heat that builds across the southern portion of the overland journey. Book 6 to 8 weeks ahead of your target date regardless of season, and your coordinator will confirm a delivery window at the time of booking.

Texas repealed its non-commercial vehicle safety inspection requirement effective January 1, 2025, under HB 3297, so a safety inspection is no longer required for most passenger vehicles. However, emissions testing is still required in select Texas counties, so whether your vehicle needs an emissions check depends on where in Texas you are registering it. If your vehicle is coming from Maryland, which does not have the same county-level emissions structure, check with TxDMV at txdmv.gov to confirm whether your destination county requires testing. Scheduling any required emissions check promptly after arrival helps you avoid delays in completing your vehicle registration.

The most significant tax change is the elimination of state income tax - Maryland imposes a rate ranging from 2.0% to 6.5%, while Texas collects no personal state income tax. Texas does carry a higher sales tax rate of 8.2% compared to Maryland's 6.00%, so day-to-day purchases will be taxed at a higher rate. For the year you move, you will likely need to file partial-year returns in both states, so consulting a tax professional about your specific situation is advisable. Property taxes vary significantly by county within Texas, so research the rate in your destination county as part of your overall cost comparison.

Texas requires new residents to register their vehicle within 30 days of establishing residency. To complete registration, you will need your current title, proof of insurance that meets Texas requirements, and proof of Texas residency such as a utility bill or lease agreement. Because Texas no longer requires a non-commercial safety inspection as of January 1, 2025, that step has been removed from the process for most passenger vehicles, though emissions testing may still apply in select counties. Visit Texas DPS and TxDMV at dps.texas.gov and txdmv.gov for the complete and current list of required documents.