Let's face it; moving is expensive. Whether you hire professional movers, or you do a DIY move, the cost can quickly add up. Luckily, there are ways to cut down on the cost of your cross-country move. Read more to find out how.
Here are 10 ways to save on your next move:
Sell Your stuff
Before you move, you can sell your belongings that are no longer used or that you just don’t care about anymore. If you sell these items, then you can make some extra cash for your move. Another benefit of this is decluttering (we will cover that later).
You can either have a garage sell, or you can sell items online using tools such as Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and even Let Go. These services make selling items much easier, which means you don’t need to stress about your garage sale.
Another idea is to take your items to local stores to sell. If you have a bunch of clothes, then you could take them to your local thrift store or used clothing store and try to sell them there.
Use a moving container
Using a moving container is quickly becoming one of the best alternatives to renting a moving truck or using professional movers.
Companies like U-Pack and PODS offer moving containers for your move (or storage solutions). Moving containers are typically much cheaper than professional moves, and you won’t have to haul your belongings around in a moving truck.
Of course, the cost is dependent on multiple things:
Overall, using moving containers you are looking at anywhere from $1,000 up to $3,500. When you compare that to the money spent on movers (at least $5,000), you’ll find that moving containers are the way to go.
Remember, you can hire labor only movers to load up your container, and it will still be pretty affordable.
Do a DIY Move
Another way to save money is to make a move yourself. You can rent a moving truck, or use the moving containers, but either way, you can still save money by making a move yourself.
This is certainly the cheapest way to move because it eliminates the labor for movers. Keep in mind, if you rent a moving truck, you will still pay for gas, the truck rental, and any lodging you might need. With gas prices being so high, many folks are opting for moving containers.
Ship Your Belongings
Shipping your items is a very viable option, and it can save you money. It’s fast, convenient, and you will probably save quite a bit of money by moving this way. We recommend using multiple boxes to ship your items to cut down on weight.
Keep in mind there are companies who will ship large items for you. You can pack those larger items in a box, or some companies provide you with a crate to ship (it depends on the size of your items). You can go to FedEx or UPS for this service, and you will not be paying nearly as much as you would if you were to move these items.
Declutter and Throw Things Out
Before you begin packing, make piles of your stuff. One pile can be kept, another pile is sell/donate, and the final pile is trash. When separating your belongings into the piles be realistic about what to take and what to leave behind.
When throwing things in piles, remember that you don’t want to take trash or extra clutter into your new home. Decorative items can be sold, and trash can be thrown out.
If you have a lot of papers, one option is to upload them onto your computer, then burn the papers. Not only is it fun, but you can clear up a lot of clutter
Move During the Off-Season
If your schedule allows it, try to move during the moving off-season (October - April). This is when rates are much more competitive since people aren’t moving as much.
Another idea to save money is to move during a weekday. Weekends are typically more expensive since many people tend to move then. So, move on a Tuesday or Wednesday to get a better price on your moving truck.
Hire Moving Labor
If you are leaning towards hiring movers, one idea to save you money is to only hire labor-only movers (instead of a full-service move). This does mean you will have to pack and store your belongings, but you won’t have to load them into your moving truck or moving container.
Find Discounts
Many moving companies (as well as rental truck companies) offer discounts for people belonging to a certain group. Seniors, AAA members, military members, as well as students are often offered discounts. So, shop around and find some discounts you can use for your move.
Use Friends for Help
Of course, extra hands on moving day are a necessity. Bribe your friends and neighbors with food, beer, or even money to get their help on moving day. Labor is the most expensive cost of hiring movers, so if you can cut down on that cost you are golden.
Use Free Boxes
Our last tip is to use either free boxes or cheaper moving supplies. You can usually find free moving supplies online on Nextdoor, or you can ask around at grocery and liquor stores. Now, keep in mind the boxes might be beat up a bit, so make sure you make some judgement on what boxes to use.
Overall, saving money on your cross-country move doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Remember to keep things as cheap as possible to maximize your savings. This includes bringing your own food and drinks, finding discounts for moving companies, and asking your friends to help to avoid paying for movers.
For any of your moving needs check out Movers.com. Our friendly staff can connect you with movers, or read our guides on the best ways to move.