What's The Most Affordable Way to Move Across the Country?

In search of the most affordable way to move across the country? We do not blame you. Considering the fact that it costs an average of $4,890 to hire professional movers (with an average distance of 1,000 miles and average weight of 7,500 pounds) for a cross-country move, it is incredibly understandable why you might be concerned about staying on budget. Thankfully, there are other, less expensive, ways to move across the country.

The best way to perform a cross country move will depend on your specific needs and budget. Though, it’s important to keep in mind that while a specific method may be the cheapest way to move, this doesn’t necessarily mean it is the best way for you to move. How much a move costs depends on how far you’re moving, how much stuff you’re moving, the time of year, and any additional services you may require.

With that said, here are some things you can do to ensure that you save money and achieve the most affordable interstate move possible:

Never trust the lowest moving estimate.

If you decide to work with a professional moving company, you should always collect at least two to three estimates from different movers. This will help you detect red flags and weed through possible scams. While it may be enticing to jump at the opportunity to get the best deal, an estimate that is significantly lower than the others is a major red flag.

Unfortunately, although there are a lot of reputable moving companies out there, there are also some “rogue movers.” These movers are known to provide you with an estimate and then once all of your things are loaded onto the truck, they will tell you that the actual cost of the move is thousands of dollars more. In this case, you’ll either have to pay the difference or have all of your things removed from the truck and left on the curb.

To avoid any major inconveniences like this, and save yourself money, do a lot of research first. Make sure that you are choosing a company that has a good reputation, is properly licensed and insured, and isn’t going to bait-and-switch you. At the very least, do not trust a moving company that gives you an estimate without physically seeing your stuff that needs to be moved.

Sell your stuff.

If you’re like most people in this country, you’ve probably accumulated a ton of stuff over the years – much of which isn’t worth moving anyways. Although you’re definitely going to want to bring some of your things, a lot of it is replaceable. And, the cost of moving nearly everything you own across the country is likely going to be more expensive than simply buying something similar when you arrive in your new location.

By selling some of your items before you move, you can actually earn money to help pay for the cost of your entire move. You’ll also lower the number of things that need to be packed, making the unpacking process simpler and reducing shipping costs. If you have both the time and patience, consider organizing a yard sale or post your belongings for sale online. Websites like Amazon, Facebook Marketplace, eBay, and Craigslist have made online selling easier than ever. Mobile apps like OfferUp and Poshmark are another great place to sell your items quickly before moving day.

When it comes to your furniture, you should give some serious thought about whether or not it needs to come with you. Of course, if you really love something, you’ll figure out a way to move it. However, everything else should be sold.

Quick Tip: If you want to make the most money for your stuff, post it online as early as possible – a few weeks before your move. This allows buyers plenty of time to find the items. That way, you can avoid having to accept lowball offers because you still have time to get rid of your things before moving day.

Ship the items you do want.

While you could rent your own moving truck and load it up yourself or hire professional movers, another often overlooked option is to have your belongings shipped. In fact, there are a number of companies that specialize in this particular service. Or, if you have a very small amount of stuff to move, you can ship them via UPS, FedEx, or USPS.

However, the only downside to have your things shipped is the very real possibility that your boxes are going to be handled very roughly. Therefore, you should make sure to buy brand-new, heavy-duty boxes and reinforce them with industrial-strength packing tape. If you have anything that is even remotely fragile, put it in your carry-on luggage for your cross-country flight.

Choose a different moving date.

Believe it or not, when you move can have a major impact on the cost of your relocation. Steering clear of peak moving season, days, and times will generally save you quite a bit of money on moving companies, truck rentals, supplies, and more.

For example, you should avoid moving on the weekends, as this tends to be the busiest time of the week to move. Also, the first and last weeks of each month are popular since this when most leases are ending or beginning. Finally, the months between Memorial Day and Labor Day should be avoided if you’re looking to save as much money as possible.

If you have some flexibility with regard to your moving date, opt for one that is in the middle of the month, on a weekday, and between October and April.

Have your company pay for your relocation.

If you’re moving for work, it’s highly advisable to ask your company about their relocation policy. Most companies will pay for part of, if not all, of your move. Therefore, it is absolutely worth speaking with your HR department to find out what they can offer you. They might have their own preferred company that they tend to work with. If not, you can perform the research yourself to find the right one.

Regardless, if your company does intend to pay for your move, make sure that you save all of your moving receipts, including those for moving supplies. That way, you can keep track of all the expenses you accrue and be reimbursed properly.

Want to Hire a Professional Moving Company?

Although you can certainly DIY your cross-country move, there is little that beats the convenience and ease of hiring full-service movers. Leave the stress of planning and executing your move in the capable hands of our moving experts. We will provide you with a move coordinator to be your single point of contact during the entire process, allowing for a simple and hassle-free relocation.

If you’re looking for the most affordable way to move across the country, look no further than Three Movers for all your relocation needs. We offer some of the most competitive rates in the industry and our quotes are always free and under no obligation to you. To start planning your cross-country move, contact us today to schedule your on-site moving estimate.