The cost to move across the country can vary widely depending on how you approach your move. The cheapest movers can cost no more than $1000, but a full-service move could cost up to $10,000 or more for long distance movers. Here are a few ways to look at your move and determine where you do and don’t want to spend money.
Personal Packing versus Professional Packing
Packing things yourself is always cheaper than professional packing – but it is time-consuming, and you must find or buy your own packing supplies. Websites like craigslist often offer free boxes and packing supplies from people who have just moved, and this is an easy way to keep costs down. Another way is to go to department and grocery stores, which often have large boxes that they are trying to get rid of and have very little damage.
On the other hand, with a professional packing service, you have the peace of mind that trained professionals are carefully handling your prized possessions. While you might be trying to figure out if wrapping plates in newspaper is good enough, your professional mover will know how many layers of newspaper or bubble wrap to use. Also, professional packers often have guarantees and will compensate you if they break something of value.
Do-It-Yourself versus Professional Movers versus Containers
A do-it-yourself move would mean that you drive your household goods yourself. This often involves renting a moving truck or U-Haul trailer. Other considerations are the cost of gas as you will need to fill up multiple times a day, lodging and meals while on the road, and insurance to cover your rental. However, many rental companies can guide you on insurance and have services to help you if you break down on your cross-country trip.
On the other hand, professional movers will come to your home, estimate the weight of your items, and provide you an estimate. They can tackle the difficult drive cross-country, allowing you to take the scenic route and not worry about securing your belongings every evening when you stop at a hotel.
Now there is an also the option for container moving. A container company drops off a container at your house. You fill it up, they pick it up and deliver it to the driveway at your new home.
Other Ways to Save Money
There are a few other great ways to save money on your long distance move:
- You can hold a garage sale before you move to lighten your load! If you don’t have time, donate those things you don’t want anymore.
- Number your boxes as you pack. As an alternative, write what room the box belongs in (kitchen supplies go in kitchen.) This saves you guesswork!
- If you are driving, make sure your vehicle is in tip-top shape to save on gas mileage and prevent an expensive mid-trip breakdown.
- Schedule the turn-off of utilities the day after your move so you don’t get stuck with bills from the next tenant or home owner.
- Before you leave your old home, do one more walk-through to make sure you didn’t miss anything important.
Make your next move the easiest one you’ve ever made. Our long distance movers are fully licensed, insured, and ready to walk you through the entire process start to finish. Pick up the phone or use the form at cheapmoversatlanta.com to get started today.
