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Last Updated: Apr 11, 2024
This article is full of expert tips on money hacks when moving across the country, including everything from tax deductions to hosting yard sales. You’re bound to find something you can use to your advantage when moving long distances.
Moving expenses can add up quickly. That’s why we made this article. For you, someone who’s ballin’ on a budget while trying to move across the country.
Below you’ll learn 9 tips from expert movers in the industry. We asked around and got the best information just for you. Now go on and take advantage of the savings.
Before you start packing, take the time to declutter your belongings as much as you can. Donate or sell items you no longer need or use. Goodwill or the Salvation Army are our two favorites. However, some will even come to your house to pick up your heavy items.
The cost of long-distance moves is per pound or cubic foot, which means there’s no use hauling junk to your new destination.
Decluttering also means you’ll have less to move and pack, leading to less stress when it comes time to bubble wrap and label boxes.
We like the live by a rule: If you haven’t used it in 1 year, throw it out.
Before starting your move, make sure to assess your budget and needs. This will help you determine your budget range and how many cubic feet you’re moving.
Choosing the right moving company is key to having a successful and smooth move. Make sure to compare quotes between at least 3 different moving companies.
Negotiate for any deals/discounts they offer and leverage competitors’ quotes because most moving companies price match. Watch out for anything out of the ordinary; some moving companies are very sketchy and add hidden fees after the move. Check customer reviews thoroughly before choosing a moving company.
Online moving calculators are a great way to estimate how much your move is going to cost. It’s a good place to start before moving on to more accurate quotes by calling a rep. Knowing roughly how much you should spend will aid you when calling moving companies for quotes.
Supplies like boxes, bubble wrap, paper, packing tape, and more can really add up when moving large loads.
That’s why it’s essential to cut down your moving costs by getting creative. Maybe ask your neighbors or friends who have recently moved for boxes or any other supplies you can get your hands on. A cool trick we’ve found is going to your local grocery stores and asking if they have any leftover boxes from their recent deliveries.
You can also try being resourceful with the items you already have. Try socks, old t-shirts, towels, or blankets for cushioning and protection in the boxes.
If you’re short on cash, hosting a garage sale is a great way to get rid of junk you don’t need when moving long distances. You’d be surprised by how much you can sell at garage sales on Sunday mornings.
Garage sales will decrease the amount of space your items will take up on a moving truck and can provide you with some extra funds to choose your desired moving company.
If you’re moving for work-related reasons, you may be eligible for tax deductions or having your company pay for the move.
Keep track of your moving expenses. For example, transportation fees, packing supplies, and even storage fees. Please consult with a tax professional before moving.
Trust us, if a moving company’s price seems too good to be true, it’s best to steer clear. These movers will be handling your prized possessions, and the last thing you want is for something unfortunate to happen without any coverage.
Thankfully, we did the heavy lifting for you. Here’s a list of the best long-distance moving companies.
The lowest price could mean compromising on quality, which could end up in spelling trouble. Your belongings might arrive late, you could face hidden fees, or find yourself without insurance coverage. Unpredictability is often part of the package with the lowest-priced moving company.
This one is often overlooked, but as moving day approaches, try to consume perishable items from your pantry and fridge. By doing this, you’ll minimize waste and won’t have to spend extra money on food that will spoil while moving.
Pack a cooler with pre-packed meals, snacks, and drinks to avoid eating out during the journey.
Protect your belongings by investing in additional insurance for family heirlooms or easy-to-break valuables during the move.
Minimizing the risk of damage or loss during the move will help you avoid costly repairs or replacements if something were to happen. Properly pack and label your items to lower the chances of something breaking.
If something does break, document any damage done and file a claim with your moving company or insurance provider ASAP.
Take the time to consider all your options before hiring a professional moving company. If you think you can handle the move with a couple of friends and a U-Haul truck, go for it.
It will be a lot of work, but the money saved will be the true payoff. Figure out how much money you’ll be saving before moving by yourself.
We all want to save money when moving, but don’t cut corners when choosing a moving company and thoroughly planning out your move.
Moving long distances does take a decent amount of money, but it doesn’t have to drain your bank account. By following each of these tips, you’re sure to save hundreds, if not thousands, in moving expenses.
Meet Nik, a dedicated writer with a passion for real estate/moving blogs and, of course… writing. For the past two years, he’s crafted engaging content for a plethora of real estate firms and E-commerce companies, accumulating credibility and experience to be one of the best in the industry. Having relocated multiple times recently, Nik has utilized a plethora of moving companies, gaining valuable insight into both solo and professional moves. Through these experiences, he would recommend moving with professional services, as it lowers stress levels tremendously. When he’s not immersed in his writing, you can find him working on other entrepreneurial endeavors in the real estate/moving space.