However, there are a few ways to reduce the expense. From hiring labor-only movers to renting a moving container, it’s possible to move cross-country without breaking the bank. Here we share six cost-effective ways to move across the country.
Sell your stuff
If you’ve accumulated a lot of stuff over the years, and you don’t need it anymore, sell them off before the move. The money you make from it will help you pay for the move. It’ll also reduce the number of things you need to pack, lowering the packing and shipping costs.
You can throw a yard sale, sell online, or rent a spot at a local flea market. Online marketplaces like Craigslist, Facebook, eBay, Nextdoor.com, and Amazon, along with mobile apps, such as OfferUp and LetGo, have made selling more accessible than ever. Another option is to look for specialty stores for camera equipment, electronics, antique items, art, books, and CDs.
Find free moving boxes and supplies
You can cut costs in a cross-country move by gathering free supplies like used boxes and packing paper from nearby retailers, online marketplaces, or communities. You can find supplies on Craigslist, U-Haul Box Exchange, grocery stores, local liquor stores, Nextdoor.com, bookstores, offices, recycling drop-off points, and Freecycle. Another option is to ask friends and family for unused boxes that they may have lying around.
Rent a truck
The cheapest way to move cross-country is to rent a truck. You can drive the truck across the country and likely save thousands of dollars in moving services. A truck rental expense will include a set rate, fuel costs, and additional insurance costs. However, truck rentals don’t offer good mileage, which means you may need to make up to 7 refueling stops during the entire road trip.
Get a trailer
Instead of hiring a moving company, you can purchase a freight trailer. You’ll have three or four days to load the trailer, and the company will then deliver the trailer to your new home. The cost of renting a freight trailer is cheaper than hiring a full-time moving company. However, you’ll have to pack and load the trailer yourself.
Self-ship your boxes
If you are moving only with little things and won’t be shipping furniture and appliances, shipping your boxes is convenient. You can reach out to shipping companies like FedEx, USPS, and UPS.
Hire a flat rate moving company
Most moving companies offer shipping estimates before you hire them. However, these rates are non-binding and will increase on the day of the move. Unlike such companies, Southwest Movers offers flat-rate pricing with discounts for long-distance moves. A free estimate will tell you about the actual moving cost, which is more reliable and safer than other options.
About Southwest Movers
We provide reliable long-distance moving services with flat-rate pricing and guaranteed discounts. We are a family-owned, licensed and insured company based in San Jose. We can help you move your belongings anywhere in the US. You can call us at 1 (800) 562-1084 for information or fill up the contact form to get a free quote.