When you think about moving across state lines, one of the first things that probably comes to mind is the expense. While an interstate move can get pricey, it can be manageable if you set a budget and look for ways to save money along the way. By executing the money saving tips mentioned below, you could save hundreds, if not thousands on your next long distance move:
Schedule Your Move
If you can, try to schedule your move ahead of time, and do it during a time when long distance movers aren’t as busy. Experts recommend moving from September through May, when children are in school and most families try to avoid a disruptive move. By planning ahead and scheduling your move during a down time, you could save up to 30 percent off regular moving rates.
Avoiding a move during the summer months, could save you hundreds or even thousands on your move.
Drive Yourself
Driving a moving truck isn’t as hard as one might think. If it was, the government would more than likely require you to get a special license. Since most long-distance moves will be long stretches of easy-to-navigate highway, consider driving the moving truck yourself. Even if you hire a moving company to load your truck, this could potentially save you thousands since driving the truck is often the most expensive part of the moving process.
Look for Free Moving Boxes
Moving boxes and other moving supplies can really add up, but you can save lots by acquiring used boxes. Free boxes can be found just about anywhere, no matter where you live. Talk with a grocery store manager or even head to your local liquor store to see if it can supply you with discarded boxes. Even if they don’t currently have any extra boxes laying around, they may be able to set some aside for you the next time they receive a shipment. Don’t waste any money on boxes until you try these strategies first.
Get Rid of Junk
The more you have, the more space you’re going to need on the moving truck, which translates to more money spent. No matter when you plan on moving, now is the time to start de-cluttering your home and getting rid of anything you can’t or won’t use in the future. Whatever you don’t need can either be sold at a garage sale to raise funds for your move, or if you don’t have the time, consider donating it for a nice tax deduction. Don’t get rid of too much stuff, however. With each item, ask yourself if you will use it in the new home. If you haven’t used it in the last few years, now’s probably the time to get rid of it.
Declutter your home of unwanted junk prior to your move is one of the easiest ways to save on moving expenses.
Do as Much as Possible Yourself
Lastly, do as much as you can, but always make sure you value your time. If it’s going to take you one hour to move a desk, you may be better off hiring local movers to do it in half the time. From packing up items to throwing a few things in a back of a truck, the more you do, the more you will be able to save. If you feel you have to hire moving professionals, don’t get scared just yet because a lot of times, hiring the right help can be a lot more reasonable than you think.
Whether your out of state move takes you to the East Coast or to America’s heartland, there are plenty of ways to reduce your moving costs. A little prep work and planning will go a long way in rescuing your wallet!