How to Move Cross Country for Cheap

Moving cross country can be rather expensive. If you have a large home of belongings and you hire full-service movers, you might spend more than $10,000 to move cross country. However, you can move cross country for cheap. Let's look at your cross-country moving options and the costs associated.

Full-Service Moving Company (Most Expensive)

You will spend between $4,000 and $9,000 to move cross country with a full-service moving company, on average. If you have a larger home or you have to transport your goods further, it could cost even more than just $9,000.

While a full-service moving company will handle the packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking of your things, it's very expensive. The more you have them pack and load, the higher the cost will be.

Renting a Moving Container

Moving containers offer a less expensive option with a price range of about $1,500 to $4,500 to move cross country. When you want to know how to move cross country for cheap, this is a better option than a full-service moving company.

Moving containers can be boxes/cubes/pods or a trailer. It will be dropped off at your home to be loaded up by you. Since you will do the packing and loading, you won't pay as much as hiring a full-service moving company.

Renting Space on a Freight Trailer

Another option to consider when looking at how to move cross country for cheap is renting space on a freight trailer. This will be much like a semi-truck trailer and you will pay based on the space you need. Your cross-country move will range from about $2,500 to $3,500 with a freight trailer.

Renting a Moving Truck (The Cheapest Option)

When you move state to state, you can rent a one-way moving truck for the move. This option will also require you to either hire someone to do the packing and loading or do it yourself. If you do it yourself, the cost will range from about $1,200 to $2,000.

This cost doesn't include the gas you will need, any overnight stays in hotels, or any extras, such as supplies for packing or a car dolly.

A Few Ways to Make Your Cross Country Move Cheaper

Choosing the right moving option will help you with how to move cross country for cheap. Here are a few helpful tips to make it even cheaper.

1. Sell/Donate as Much as Possible

Anything you don't need or want should be sold or donated before you move. The fewer things you move, the cheaper your cross-country move will be.

2. Move in the Off-Season

The late spring through early fall is the prime time for moving companies. Rates are almost always much more expensive during this time of the year. If possible, move during November, December, or January. These months tend to offer the cheapest rates for moving cross country.

3. Compare Quotes

Moving companies are not created equal. Some charge less than others for the exact same or very similar service. Get multiple moving quotes, regardless of the option you choose.

When you want to learn how to move cross country for cheap, use these tips and options to make the right choice for your budget. You can rent a truck or use a moving container to make it cheaper compared to using a full-service moving company.