How to save money on a long distance move

No doubt about it, moving isn’t cheap. Even a local move can be expensive, let alone a cross-country one. By the time it’s done, many people have exhausted themselves as well as their wallets. Lucky for you, there are simple, yet effective ways to cut costs. If you want to know the right way to move cross-country on a budget, look no further. Follow our guide on how to save money on a long distance move and you can be sure you won’t spend more than you need to.

Choose the right time to move

Everyone wants to move when the weather is nice. That is why moving companies have the most business during the summer months. This is also why this is the most expensive time to move. Instead, try choosing a date between October and April, if you can. Moreover, weekends are peak days for these companies, which also raises the price. If you book your move on a weekday, you are more likely to save money on your long distance move. Finally, you can save by timing your move for mid-month, rather than at the beginning or end. This is the least busy period for movers.

A local moving company can help you will a long distance move as well. For your upcoming move to Texas, look for Carrollton movers to help you make the transition as smooth as possible.

Declutter to save money on a long distance move

Moving into a new home is like having a clean slate. That is why you should declutter, to get rid of things from the old home that you don’t actually need. During the weeks before the move, start to consider which items you would like to see in your new house. Moreover, think whether they will fit in with the rest of the decor. A floorplan of the place you are moving to can help you figure out where each item will go. Furthermore, take measurements of all the bulky furniture you intend on taking with you. Make sure that it will fit through the doors and hallways before you start to move it.

Most professional movers charge by the weight of the items. By getting rid of the unwanted things, the cost of your move will go down. On the other hand, you might even make money. You can organize a garage sale to sell the furniture you wish to leave behind. Alternatively, you can donate it to charity or give it to friends or neighbors.

Compare the prices of moving companies

One of the best ways to save money on a long distance move is to hire a moving company as early as possible. The shorter the notice, the more expensive the move. That is why you should start comparing moving companies as soon as you can. Get estimates from at least three long distance moving companies. Make sure to have estimators come to your home and give you realistic pricing. However, be wary of scam companies who promise low prices but have hidden charges and services in the end.

Ship your items to save money on a long distance move

After you declutter, you might find that you don’t actually have that many things. If this is the case, you should consider shipping them instead of hiring a company to deliver it. Unless it is furniture or other bulky items, shipping your belongings by air can help you save money on their transport. Also, this option is cheaper than renting a truck and driving it yourself as well, since you won’t have to pay for gas. And if you decide to ship your items, you can fly to your new home and avoid sleeping in hotel rooms on the way.

You can take advantage of tax deductions

There are different ways in which you can file for a tax deduction after a move. If your relocation is for a job, you can take advantage of this option. Moreover, you can ask your company to help you cover some costs of the move. Additionally, if you donated items after decluttering, ask for a receipt. You can file these to get a deduction based on charity. Make sure to keep all of your receipts for money spent during the move. Keep them all in the same place, or in a clearly labeled box. That way, you will know where they are when the tax time comes.

When you hire a professional moving company, you should make sure that they are reputable as well as affordable. If you are moving to or from Texas, make sure to hire long distance movers TX that can meet your needs and help you save as much as you can.

Ask friends for help to save money on a long distance move

When moving, it is always a good idea to hire a professional moving company. It will end up saving you money, as well as your back. However, you can ask friends and family for help with packing and organizing. This is a big task, and it can be hard to do it on your own. Hiring professionals for help with packing is just an added cost. Friends and family won’t charge you, and they will likely be happy to help you out. Furthermore, since you are moving long distance, you can use this opportunity to spend quality time with the people you care about.

Save money on packing

Like any other part of the moving process, packing can take a lot of your time and money. That is why you should know the best way to utilize your boxes in order to save money on a long distance move. When you are packing heavy items such as books, use smaller instead of bigger boxes. Wrap books in old newspapers instead of buying packing material. Additionally, you can use your clothes or towels to wrap items. Whenever you find empty spaces in a box, fill them with your other belongings. Use large boxes for lighter things, such as clothes or bedding. Moreover, when you pack electronics, try to find their original packaging. Besides the benefit of not having to buy new boxes, you will be sure that they are protected.