4 Tips for Moving Long Distance on a Budget

4 Tips for Moving Long Distance on a Budget

Fun fact: Every year, nearly 40 million Americans move their residences.

For some, it’s just a move across the street. While others are packing up and trekking across the country. If you’re planning a long distance move, chances are you’ve looked at the costs are feeling a bit overwhelmed.

But there’s no need to fear.

In this guide, we put together a few tips to help you execute a cross country move on a budget.

1. Downsizing is a Crucial Part of Moving

One of the most important parts of decreasing the cost of a move is decreasing the number of items you’ll be moving.

If you aren’t going to need some of your belongings, don’t bring them. Most household items can be replaced later if you realized that you do need them.

The weight of all your belongings plays a big part in the cost of shipping. Therefore, you should be willing to put the time into deciding what’s really worth bringing.

If, for example, you’ve kept items in storage before your move, chances are you don’t need whatever was in there. Downsize to decrease shipping costs.

Keep in mind bulky and unnecessary items such as oversized entertainment centers, weight sets, etc. Particularly large items cost extra money to ship. Don’t forget to compare the size of your new home and current home to be sure everything you’re planning on taking with you will fit. That’s an easy way to decide if things are worth bringing or not. If they can’t fit, don’t bother.

Additionally, if you have cheap furniture, it may actually cost more to ship than it would to buy new furniture once you arrive.

2. Reuse Materials for Your Move

Rather than go out and buy a ton of moving boxes, it may be worth it to recycle certain materials.

If you’ve got an upcoming move, start saving cardboard boxes.

Hang on to boxes that could be reused during your move. Amazon boxes, cereal boxes, diaper boxes, can all be reused to decrease the amount you spend on moving supplies.

Another great way to get a hold of boxes for free is to ask your local grocery or retail stores if you can have the boxes they use for inventory. These stores usually end up throwing them away anyway so it would be no big deal to pass them along to you. Sites like Craigslist or Freecycle could be great sources for supplies as well.

Your moving company may also offer used boxes at discounted rates as well. So definitely ask them about that.

3. Select the Right Moving Date

The most common time for people to move is during the summer while the kids are out of school. This is when the demand for moving is highest and usually prices are higher during this time.

If you have a flexible timeline, choose time periods that are not as busy. That way rates for moving services and vans are not as expensive. Winter is a cost effective time to move. Just be sure to take weather conditions into account.

Hiring an experienced moving company will also help as they will be familiar when dealing with those adverse conditions. 

4. Research Relocation Packages

If you’re relocating across the country for work, your new company may offer financial assistance.

If you’re lucky enough to have a company that offers assistance, they’ll help with things like moving services, flights, storage, etc. Be sure to give them a call and inquire about any packages they may have.

For long distance moves, that can be a crucial part of decreasing the cost.

Moving Across the Country

For more help performing a cross country move, be sure to talk to professional movers near you.

For moving services in the Cheyenne, Salt Lake, Colorado Springs, or San Antonio area, contact Arrow Moving & Storage for a free moving quote today.