Moving across town is typically easy and inexpensive, but moving to another state is an entirely different matter. It’s more complicated, more expensive, and often feels overwhelming. It is, however, possible to do it without feeling like you’re selling your firstborn child. Let’s look at some of the ways you can save money on your long-distance move.
Review Your Moving Options
You generally have three options for how to move your belongings: hiring a moving company, renting a truck, or a hybrid of the two.
A moving company will pack, load, move, unload and sometimes even unpack your belongings for you. This full-service option is the easiest for you, but it is also the most expensive.
Renting a truck is usually the cheapest option. You pack, load, move, and unload your things yourself. Your only expenses are the cost of the truck, gas, and any tolls or other associated fees for the trip.
A hybrid option is to hire a company where you pack and load your things into a portable storage container, and the company drives the container to your new location. Depending on the company you choose, the cost can be as low as renting a truck, or somewhere between renting a truck and hiring a moving company.
Purge the House
You probably have things shoved in drawers or closets that you haven’t used in years; things that you knew you wouldn’t use but couldn’t just throw away at the time. Now’s the time to get over that feeling.
The less you move, the cheaper your move will be. Whichever option you choose, a smaller truck or a lighter load is going to be less expensive. Be ruthless as you go through your house. If it’s not a seasonal item, and you haven’t used it in the last year (or even six months), get rid of it. Donate it if it’s in good shape or sell it to make extra cash to put towards the move.
Plan to Save
Planning allows you to save money by saving materials. Get boxes from local grocery stores and restaurants. Save newspapers and other padding material. Remember you can use things you already own as padding material, too. Towels, washcloths, and clothing can wrap dishes; comforters, blankets, and sheets can wrap and cushion larger items.
Save on your Trip
Depending on where you’re moving, chances are you’ll need at least one overnight stop. The urge to drive hard and stop late when you’re tired may be strong, but planning ahead may be a cheaper option. You can look beyond the traditional hotel or motel, and look into options like Airbnb to find a cheaper (and more welcoming) option. Alternatively, reserving a hotel room in advance is often less expensive, and you won’t have to worry about a hotel being booked before you get there. You can also save by moving in the fall, winter or spring, avoiding holidays and the end of the month. It’s all about planning and being prepared.
By applying these tips, you can make your interstate move more affordable. To request a free, long distance moving quote, call the team at Cheap Movers Austin. We’ll send an in-home estimator to your house or apartment to perform a walkthrough. Based on our inventory we will give you a moving estimate for your long distance haul. If you’re happy with the price, simply sign the contract and we’ll schedule your move!