The soaring cost of living has definitely taken a toll on people’s wallets. Long-distance moves are no exception. There are a few ways to save some money on a long-distance move, but they all require effort.
Do-It-Yourself Move
The most obvious way to save money is to do the move yourself. This option requires renting a truck, loading all of your belongings, and making multiple trips. It’s not the easiest way to move, but it will save you money.
Pros And Cons
There are pros and cons to moving yourself long-distance instead of using a moving company. On the one hand, if you have a lot of friends or family who live near your new home, you can save money by having them help you move your belongings. You’ll also have more control over your belongings and can pack them exactly how you want.
However, self-moving is more stressful and physically demanding than a professional mover. If you’re considering moving long-distance yourself, be sure to factor in all the associated costs. This includes the price of your move and transportation, lodging, and food expenses along the way.
When to Hire a Professional Long Distance Moving Company
There are certain circumstances when it’s worth hiring a professional mover, even if it’s more expensive. If you have a lot of belongings or very delicate items, it’s probably best to leave the move to the professionals.
The same goes for last-minute moves. Professional movers can usually accommodate tight timelines, whereas self-movers might have a more challenging time finding a rental truck on short notice.
If you’re moving with young children or pets, you might also want to consider hiring professional help. Having someone else handle the logistics of the move can take a lot of stress off your plate so that you can focus on yourself and your loved ones.
How to Save Money On Your Long-Distance Move
If you’ve decided to use a professional moving company, there are still ways to save money.
Declutter and Garage Sale
The first step is to declutter your home as much as possible. The less stuff you have, the cheaper your move will be. Not only that, but you’ll also have less to pack and unpack at your new place.
De-cluttering can be very therapeutic. Not only will it make your move cheaper, but it will also make the process much easier and less stressful!
Moving During the “Off-Season”
It is typically cheaper to make a long-distance move during the fall and winter months. This is because many moving companies charge lower rates during these times as most people are not relocating. If you are planning to move during these seasons, compare rates among different companies to find the best deal.
You can also save money by booking your summer relocation before higher rates are applied during the off-season. Many moving companies offer discounts and incentives during the offseason, so it’s the best time to get a good deal.
Save Money on Packing Supplies
When packing, be sure to use sturdy boxes and wrap all fragile items securely. If possible, try to avoid packing heavy items like books. Not only will this make the move more manageable, but it will also save you money on packaging materials.
You can find free boxes by checking Craigslist, Freecycle, or asking local businesses if they have any to spare.
Get Multiple Quotes
When requesting quotes from long-distance movers, get at least three different estimates. This will give you a good perspective of the market rate and help you find the best deal.
You must speak to your moving coordinator about your moving quote as often as you like. They can answer any questions you have about the estimate and help you ensure you are comfortable with all the particulars.
Look for Discounts
Many moving companies offer discounts if you pay upfront, book your move during the off-season, or refer a friend. Be sure to ask about any discounts that might be available to you.
If you are a senior citizen or veteran, you may be eligible for discounts on your long-distance move. Many moving companies offer discounts to these groups, so be sure to ask about them when you are pricing out your move.