How can you move long distance cheap?   

Moving can be a stressful experience, but moving long distance is an even more challenging and extensive process. If you don’t plan and organize your move properly, you may hit many bumps in the road. That’s why you need the right tips and tricks up your sleeve. Furthermore, moving is expensive. Of course, the total amount of things you need to move and how far you are moving will affect the final price of your move. However, there are some things you can do  to make the move more affordable. So if you’re wondering how to save money while moving, just keep reading this Master Moving Guide on how to move long distance cheap!

In order to move long distance cheap you need to prepare  

The first step you should take when you want to move long distance is to make a plan. Sit down and write up a rough budget and time plan. Once you know exactly how much money you are able to set aside, you’ll know what you can or can’t afford. And that’s okay! Having a moving costs checklist will also help you because you have something to refer to during the moving process. This guide is here to show you that you don’t have to splurge on every aspect of you move. There are many things you can do to cut down the budget:  

  • DIY move  
  • Hybrid move  
  • Shipping your items  
  • Moving during the off-season  
  • Saving on packing supplies  
  • Decluttering  
A woman planning how to move long distance cheap
Do you want to move long distance cheap? Plan ahead!

DIY move 

That’s right, a DIY move is the cheapest way to move. Doing everything yourself will help you save money on movers. However, you will have to pay for a truck and gas yourself. If you’re thinking about a DIY move, make sure you account for these expenses. Even though DIY moves are the cheapest, you’ll have to do the all the heavy lifting yourself. And it will take you longer because you don’t have the benefit of a whole crew doing the work for you. However, if you have a friend with a truck and people around you who are willing to help you, then a DIY move is the best option to relocate!  

Move long distance cheap with a hybrid move  

This is another great option for those who want to save up. With a hybrid move you can choose which part of the move you want to do yourself, and which to pay for. If you choose to drive the moving truck yourself, you’ll save a considerable amount of money on labor. Transporting your items takes the most time, which is why it’s the most expensive part of the move. This way, you can hire professionals to pack and load the truck.  

On the other hand, you can also do the packing and loading yourself (or with some friends) and let reputable movers like interstate movers to transport your things safely to your new home.   

A man handing a woman some packages
Pro tip – if you have instruments that need moving, shipping is your safest option!

Ship your items, or some of them 

Next up on our list is shipping your possessions across the country. This is a viable option if you don’t have much to move. It can get pricey if you’re moving a lot of stuff, though. It may also make sense to ship some of your more bulky or fragile things and transport the rest yourself in a moving truck. However, shipping your things might not be the best option if you’re moving with your family. You might opt for a different option from this list.  

Moving during the “Off-Season”  

If you have enough to spend on movers, but still want to save some money, try moving during the off-season. Once summer is over, there will be more options available for you. In addition, many moving companies offer discounts on services once the peak season ends. If you think this option suits you, start planning your move early. This way, you can be ready to call and ask different moving companies about prices once fall rolls around. So, If you don’t have a fixed moving date, try moving between October and April.

Save money on packing supplies  

You might think packing supplies don’t play a huge role in your moving expenses. However, these things add up easily. One of the easiest ways to bring down the cost of your move is finding little ways to save money here and there. For example, you can ask around if friends and family if they have cardboard boxes they don’t need. Or go to your local supermarket and ask around. Often, they’ll give out fruit or vegetable boxes for free. Saving on packing supplies will allow you to spend more money on a truck, movers, shipping costs or unexpected expenses.   

Declutter  

Decluttering is another great tip if you want to move long distance for less money. Get rid of extra items to save time and money. There is no point in moving an item across the country you haven’t used in years. Instead, donate the items or have a garage sale. This is an excellent way to make extra cash to pay for moving supplies or other moving expenses.  

Asking for help  

Asking for help should be a must in any type of move. If you have friends or family who are willing to help you, make the most of it! Have a fun day packing and loading a truck together, and you can always treat them with food or coffee after. Extra hands will definitely help you load and unload faster and more efficiently. This way moving long distance cheap will be a piece of cake! And if you have a close friend or family member to help you drive across the country to your new destination, you don’t have anything to worry about.   

Two men moving boxes
Reputable movers will make all the difference!

Hiring reputable movers to move long distance cheap  

Of course, hiring moving professionals like long distance movers will get the job done faster and, in general, with less stress and anxiety. However, it can get pricey, so make sure you plan your expenses carefully. There are always ways to cut down on something like materials or packing services, and splurging a little bit more on movers.  

Good luck!  

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