Cheapest Way to Move

Life can be unpredictable sometimes and in some circumstances we may need to move before we are financially ready, or able. And let’s face it, things are more expensive than ever nowadays. Who couldn’t use a little extra money in their pocket? Whether it’s the cheapest way to move cross country or the cheapest way to move furniture down the street, we’ve got some tips and tricks to make it the most affordable move possible.

10 Tips To Save Money On Moving Costs

#1: Downsize and Reduce

The best way to save on your moving costs by far is reducing what you move.

• Sell– Consider selling anything you don’t love. The sell price plus the money you saved from not moving the item adds up fast and you can probably replace many of those items new.
• Use– Eat all the food in your pantry and don’t pay to move household supplies that may be cheaper to buy at the new place than to move.
• Give– Donations are a great way to reduce while helping the community. You can also give to friends or family so you know your items will be put to good use. Remember donations are tax deductible also.
• Trash– Whatever you can’t sell or donate, recycle or throw away. Many recycling and waste management companies do a free bulky waste trash pickup once a year. Call your waste management company to find out what trash pickup services are available in your area.

#2: DIY as Much as Possible

Planning a DIY move can be an empowering and cost-effective way to relocate.

• You do the work. The more you can do yourself, the cheaper your move will be.
  Do It Yourself Moving
• Pack up the house yourself. Doing the packing yourself will definitely save you big time on your move.
  How to Pack for a Move
• Borrow or Rent a moving truck, If you need a storage unit some companies offer free moving truck rentals with a storage reservation.
  Free Moving Truck Rental
• Load/Unload yourself. Loading and unloading the moving truck yourself or with the help of friends and family can save you big time.
  How to Load a Moving Truck
• Hire Labor-Only. If you need professional movers to load and unload the moving truck you can hire labor-only movers that are hired specifically to do the labor portion of the move only.

#3: Save on Packing Supplies

When preparing for a move or organizing your space, saving on packing supplies can significantly reduce costs.

• Use free moving boxes– Check local and social media classifieds for free moving boxes instead of buying new. In a pinch you can also hunt for banana or wine boxes at grocery stores.
• Use household items as filler to pack boxes and protect items instead of bubble wrap or packing paper. This means that all your blankets, towels, sheets, pillow cases, wash cloths, pillows, and even clothes can be used in place of professional packing supplies.
• Fill empty spaces. Fill anything that can carry stuff inside like furniture drawers, cupboards, luggage, laundry hampers, large pots, slow cookers, bags etc.

#4 Book Moving Services Early

When planning a move, one of the most crucial steps is to secure any professional moving services well in advance. Early booking not only enhances your chances of selecting a reputable company that meets your specific needs, but it also allows you to budget effectively and avoid last-minute stress. Many moving companies offer discounts for early reservations, providing an added incentive to plan ahead.

#5 Move During the Off Season

When considering a move, timing can significantly impact your budget. Moving during the off-season, typically fall and winter months, can lead to substantial savings. During these periods, demand for moving services decreases, resulting in lower rates and increased availability of trucks and resources. Many moving companies offer discounts and promotions to attract customers during this time, making it an ideal opportunity for those looking to trim expenses. Additionally, the weather tends to be more manageable, and you can avoid the long wait times often associated with peak seasons.

#6 Move on A Weekday

To maximize savings, consider scheduling your move for mid-week and mid-month. Moving companies often experience lower demand during these times, leading to reduced rates and potential discounts. Weekends, particularly at the end and beginning of the month, are peak times when most leases change, resulting in higher costs and limited availability. By opting for a Tuesday or Wednesday in the middle of the month, you not only benefit from more flexible scheduling but also allow yourself a stress-free transition.

#7 Compare As Many Companies As You Can

To ensure you get the best deal compare multiple companies for you moving services. Start by researching local and national companies, paying attention to their services, pricing, and customer reviews. Obtain quotes from at least three different companies, as this will provide a clearer picture of the market rates. Additionally, consider factors beyond just price, such as the company’s reputation for reliability and customer service. 

#8 Discounts

Ask about discounts that many moving companies offer like AAA membership discounts , military discounts, professional discounts, student discounts or senior discounts.

#9 Promotions

Look for companies with promotional deals that you can take advantage of.

• CubeSmart Self Storage– Free use of a rental truck when you reserve a storage space with them (subject to availability).
• Penske and Budget Truck Rentals- Have unlimited miles on one-way truck rentals.
• Budget Truck Rentals– Save 20% on truck rentals with code 20DIS.

#10 Tax Deductions

Keep receipts of any donations or expenses that may be tax deductible so you can write them off on your taxes. This won’t be an immediate help with moving costs but you will be thankful for it when you file your taxes. .

Cheapest Way to Move Cross Country

Migrating from one corner of the United States to another can be an exhilarating adventure, but it also comes with its own set of challenges—chief among them is the cost. Whether you’re relocating for a new job, family obligations, or simply to start fresh, saving money while moving cross country is an achievable goal. Here are some cost-effective strategies to help you move affordably without compromising the quality and efficiency of your transition.

1. Plan Ahead

The sooner you start planning your cross-country move, the more opportunities you’ll have to save money. Ideally, you should begin prepping for your move at least two to three months in advance. This timeframe allows you to compare moving quotes, research different moving companies, and familiarize yourself with various transportation options. By taking the time to plan, you can avoid last-minute price surges and the stress of finding an affordable method.

2. Declutter and Downsize

One of the easiest ways to cut moving costs is to declutter before packing your belongings. Assess each item in your home and ask yourself if it’s worth the time, cost, and effort to move it. Items you no longer need can be sold at a garage sale, donated to local charities, or even given away to friends and family. Besides lightening your load, eliminating unnecessary items can decrease moving expenses, as fewer belongings mean a lower shipping rate or reduced time needed for packing and unpacking services.

3. Choose the Right Moving Method

Cross country moves are more complex than local or same state moves and they definitely cost more. For the cheapest moving option to move cross country consider renting a moving truck, or opting for a hybrid solution like freight movers or portable storage containers.

• Household Freight Movers: Freight moving companies deal with transporting goods, including household goods. With household moving, freight companies are most commonly used for long distance moves and large loads. Freight movers can be a surprisingly affordable long distance moving option.
• Rental Truck: Renting a moving truck is often more affordable than hiring a full-service mover, especially if you possess the physical capability to handle the packing, loading, and driving. Be sure to factor in gas, mileage charges, and insurance when comparing costs.
• Portable Storage Containers:This service allows you to have a container delivered to your doorstep, which you fill at your convenience. The company then transports the container to your new location. This, too, can be a cost-effective solution as it allows for flexible packing while often being less expensive than traditional moving companies.

4. Timing Your Move

If possible, plan your move during the off-peak season, which typically spans late fall and winter months. Moving companies often charge less during these periods due to low demand. Additionally, consider choosing a mid-month or midweek moving date, as weekends and the beginning or end of the month usually see a spike in moving activity, subsequently increasing prices.

5. Get Multiple Quotes

Whether you decide to rent a truck or hire movers, always gather multiple quotes. Getting estimates from at least three different companies can give you a better idea of the prevailing market rate and help you negotiate a better deal. When looking at quotes, ensure each estimate is detailed, covering costs for various services, mileage, and any additional fees. This will allow you to make an informed decision based on the total cost rather than just the initial figure.

6. Tap Into Discounts

Many moving companies and rental services offer discounts that can significantly reduce your expenses. Look for promotions that target students, military personnel, or seniors. Additionally, you might find coupon codes online or contribute to your network on social media to get first-time customer discounts.

7. Pack Smartly

Packing is a critical aspect of moving, and how you do it can affect your overall expenses. Opt for free packing supplies from your local grocery or liquor stores, or utilize towels and linens as cushioning for fragile items. Efficient packing not only saves you money but also reduces the time and effort spent during the move. Clearly label boxes to avoid confusion and facilitate the unpacking process.

8. Self-Storage Solutions

If you require a buffer period between moving out of your old home and into your new one, consider utilizing self-storage facilities. This option allows you to move your belongings at your own pace without the pressure of immediate relocation. Compare storage fees thoroughly, ensuring you choose a facility that fits your budget while keeping your items safe.

Conclusion

Moving cross country doesn’t have to break the bank. With thorough preparation, meticulous planning, and smart choices, you can save considerably on long-distance moving costs. From decluttering and exploring various transport methods to packing strategically and utilizing discounts, implementing these tips will help ease the financial burden of your big move. Embrace the adventure ahead and take the steps necessary to make your transition as smooth and affordable as possible.

Cheapest Way To Move Furniture To Another State

Moving furniture to another state can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. One of the cheapest ways to tackle this challenge is by using a DIY approach. Renting a moving truck is often more economical than hiring professional movers, especially for long-distance moves. Many rental companies offer competitive rates, and when you factor in the cost of fuel, it can still be cheaper than full-service movers. To save even more, consider enlisting the help of friends and family for loading and unloading your furniture. Many hands make light work, and it can turn into a fun bonding experience.

Another budget-friendly option is to utilize shipping containers or portable storage units. These services allow you to pack your furniture at your own pace, and they handle the transportation to your new state. This method can be more cost-effective than traditional moving companies since you are only paying for the container rental and transportation, often resulting in a lower overall cost. Additionally, be sure to compare quotes from different companies and look for discounts or promotions that could further reduce your expenses.

If you have small or fewer items, consider using a freight shipping service. This option allows you to ship your furniture via a freight company, which may offer lower rates than traditional movers, especially for items that can be palletized. Just be sure to properly pack and label your furniture to avoid any damage during transit. Lastly, timing your move can significantly impact costs; moving during off-peak seasons or mid-month can yield better rates and more flexible scheduling options. By combining these strategies, you can find the cheapest way to move your furniture to another state.

FAQs

Related links:

• Do It Yourself Moving
• Help with Moving Costs
• How to Pack for a Move
• Moving Truck Rental