How to Save Money While Moving Long Distance
When it comes to moving, we’re all trying to save as much money as possible. While most long-distance moves typically cost upwards of a few thousand dollars, you can shrink the final bill by planning ahead and practicing careful budgeting.
Breaking Down Cross Country Moving Costs
While a local move might not break the bank, moving long-distance could cost anywhere from $2,000-$15,000. How much a person spends on a move can depend on multiple things. Let’s take a closer look at the sneaky spenders that can run up the total cost of your move:
Moving Supplies (boxes, tape, protection): $100-$500
Cleaning Fees: $200
Moving Labor (2 movers/ 2 hours of work): $300
Transportation (truck or portable storage container rental): $1,000-$3,000
Distance (coast-to-coast moves): $2,000-$5,000
Total: $9,000
10 Ways to Save on Long Distance Moves
1. Plan and Book Ahead: Don’t wait to book movers, trucks, or other rentals at the last minute. This will usually result in extra fees. Instead, try booking a few weeks or even a month in advance. It also helps to have a checklist to work off of while you move, so nothing slips through the cracks.
Is this your first time moving long-distance? Here are 6 steps to help get your move off to a smooth start.
2. Book on Low-Traffic Days: Weekends and the summertime are considered the busy periods for movers and moving companies. Naturally, this means that the prices increase with the rising demand. Avoid unnecessary upcharges by booking your movers and rentals during the work week (Monday-Thursday), or even consider moving in the spring or fall.
3. Set a Budget: Money can slip away quickly if you aren’t paying attention to how much you spend. By having a budget in mind, you’ll be able to make more careful decisions about where your money goes.
4. Declutter: The less stuff you have, the less time you have to spend on packing, and the less you have to spend on moving! It’s also a good idea to limit the amount of large or specialty furniture you bring along on your move. Heavy and hard to move items will usually come with an extra moving fee due to the extra labor they require.
You can donate, toss, or even sell unwanted items at a garage sale for some extra cash. Want to learn more about how to put on a great yard sale? We have the perfect article for you!
5. Rent a Portable Storage Container: If you’re moving coast-to-coast, a portable storage container may be a more financially-savvy option for you. All you need to do is load it up, and then the company you’re renting with can ship it wherever you need it to go.
6. Rent a Truck: If you’re moving over 100 miles, but not quite going coast-to-coast, a truck is probably going to be the most cost-effective option for you. Remember, your total mileage will contribute to the final cost.
7. Get Multiple Quotes: Don’t pick a random company at first glance, shop around first! Once you get a better idea of average costs, you’ll be able to make the most informed decision for you.
8. Enlist the Help of Loved Ones: Movers are great, but so are a few friends or family members. See if you can utilize a favor from the people closest to you. This isn’t just affordable, but it also makes moving so much more fun.
9. Go Discount Hunting: Never miss out on a good deal! Keep an eye out for discounts on supplies, storage, or other moving services. One way to save money on boxes is to buy in bulk. And since U-Haul offers a 100% buy-back guarantee on all unused boxes, you’re guaranteed to not overspend.
10. Get Creative with Supplies: Reuse old boxes, utilize your luggage, and keep your eyes peeled for box recycling programs. For example, most U-Haul centers have a Take-a-Box, Leave-a-Box program where other customers can donate and pick up gently used boxes for free! Basically, make sure you are utilizing all your options before going out and purchasing new supplies.
The Best Long Distance Moving Company Near You
Easy, it’s a U-Haul center near you! There’s a U-Haul center in every state and parts of Canada, meaning that we can help you get almost anywhere. Between our large selection of trucks, moving supplies, and affordable moving labor, U-Haul is always here to help you accomplish a full-service move on a budget.
The raving reviews don’t lie, U-Haul centers all over are affordable, reliable, and flexible. The next time you’re ready to pull off a cross-country move, you’ll know who to call. And we’ll be here to answer!