Any move is stressful and complicated, but a move across the country is especially frustrating because it requires much more planning. It also requires a deeper commitment of resources, requiring you to spend more money on everything from moving van rentals to fuel. While there’s no getting around some things, these seven tips can help you cut the costs, wherever possible.
1. Consider Using a Moving Container
Once you order the moving container and pack it up with your belongings, the container provider (PODS, ABF’s U-Pack ReloCubes, and U-Haul to name a few) will transport it to your destination. Depending on the size of your household, this can save you as much as $2,000.
2. Find Free Moving Supplies
You might be surprised by what you can get for free. In addition to cardboard boxes, people give away free bubble wrap, wrapping plastic, and other valuable moving supplies. Look at online classified sites, like Craigslist, or ask area retailers what they have available.
3. Develop a Detailed Itinerary
Families spend so much time worrying about the details of the move that they don’t spend much time planning the actual trip. Plotting your course and driving times can save you a ton of money. For instance, if you can move in the fall or early spring, gas will last longer in the cooler temperatures. Also, use apps to find the best hotel deals, so you’re not stuck paying premium rates at an out of the way motel.
4. Get Rid of Your Junk
If you can reduce what you need to be transported, you can rent a smaller container or moving truck. Decide what your family doesn’t use and look for ways to get rid of it. If you can sell the items, that will earn you some extra cash for meals on the road. Otherwise consider donating your items to a local charity or thrift shop.
5. Skip the Movers
It’s common to hire a professional mover, but this can present a significant expense. If you can enlist the help of friends and relatives, they will often do the work for cold drinks and a hot meal. If you need more help, day laborers will be happy to work for less money and can do the same things the movers do.
6. Ask Your Employer About Available Resources
In many cases, people relocate across the country to take on a better position with their employer. If this is the case, they may offer relocation assistance, or make other discounted resources available to you.
7. Planning for Meals
Finally, it’s important to consider how much time you’ll be on the road. Hitting restaurants two to three times a day can become extremely costly. Instead, bring along a cooler, which can be filled with bottled water, snacks, and sandwich supplies. Limiting your restaurant bills can cut several hundred dollars off of your expense budget.
Finances represent the biggest challenge to a cross-country move, so it’s important to plan out your spending in advance. Developing a budget and conducting thorough research can help you develop a more accurate cost analysis. While unplanned surprises can upset your plan, setting up a budget can help ensure you have a little financial buffer to guarantee your timely arrival at your destination.