Budget-Saving Long Distance Moving Tips

Here are 15 tips you can use to make your moving costs budget-friendly:

 

1. Declutter to Save Costs

Reducing your inventory lowers the cost of your long distance move. Movers calculate costs by volume, so downsizing your furniture can significantly save money. Start by sorting your belongings and deciding what to keep, donate, or sell. This reduces moving costs and makes unpacking easier in your new home.

 

 

2. Book Early

If you are moving long distances on a budget, try not to book your move at the last minute. Scheduling your move 30 days in advance can save you 25 percent on your costs with American National Movers. Early booking lets you choose the best dates and improves your chances of a reliable moving experience. 

 

 

3. Contact Smaller Moving Companies

Major van lines often have more long distance moving jobs than they can handle, so their costs are high. However, contacting small to midsized moving companies can save you thousands of dollars on your long distance move. Don't worry; even a smaller carrier can provide a reliable moving experience, and their communication is often better.

 

 

4. Avoid Mega Carriers

Large moving companies have a longer track record but are the most expensive. Major long distance mover brands have a full schedule and are less likely to consider small moves or long distance movers' budgets below $7,000. Opting for a smaller company can result in significant savings and a tailored moving plan.

 

 

5. Negotiate With Movers 

Working with a long distance moving company that is willing to negotiate within your budget would be best. Anyone who blames their high costs on availability might be too busy to be effective. 

 

Secondly, any business unwilling to negotiate with you indirectly tells you your haul is not worth it. American National Movers is a mover willing to negotiate to earn your business. We strive to offer reasonably priced movers.

 

 

6. Share A Moving Truck

If your load is a bit on the smaller side, consider sharing a truck with another customer to keep your long-distance moving costs budget-friendly. By sharing a moving truck, you can move across the country with a small move for about $4,000.00. The wait time for shared truckload moving can be between 5 and 14 days, depending on the distance of your long move.

 

 

7. Purchase Your Boxes With U-Haul

American National Movers recommends purchasing boxes with U-Haul for those who want packing services. Moving companies tend to charge you extra when purchasing boxes from them. By getting your boxes, you control costs and ensure you have the right supplies.

 

 

8. Some National Movers Are Affordable

National moving companies like Allied and American National Movers have many trucks and nationwide moving options. This allows us to lower our costs while providing you with the professional moving service you deserve. The more trucks and warehouses a long distance moving company has, the easier it is to offer affordable rates.

 

 

9. Avoid The End Of The Month

The most expensive option is to relocate your furniture to a new state and hire movers at the end of the month. This is because most United States residents hire long distance movers at the end of the month. Moving costs depend on when you move. You'll pay more than usual if hiring movers at the peak of moving season. 

 

 

10. Ask For A Guaranteed Price

Do you think your initial moving costs are final? Think again. Several moving companies estimate your costs and can change the agreement on loading day. Ask your moving company for a flat rate to budget your long distance move better.

 

 

11. PODS

PODS is a cheaper long distance moving option, but use it at your own risk. Customers have reported miscommunication issues with PODS on move day and at delivery. 

 

 

12. Get Three Long Distance Moving Quotes

Some long-distance movers might charge $12,000 to relocate your furniture from California to Florida. American National Movers? $8,000 for a full truck and about $4,000 for small long-distance hauls. Calling at least three moving companies for a quote is important to ensure your costs are accurate and fair.

 

 

13. Move During the Holiday Season

If you're not moving quickly, try hiring movers to move your furniture to another state from November through January. Avoid moving in the summer, as long distance moving is the most expensive from June through August.

 

 

14. Choose a Mover You Trust

Peace of mind is more important than saving on moving costs, so be sure your long distance movers are trustworthy before hiring them. Do this by checking BBB ratings, complaints, and good reviews. People have reported that hiring an unreliable mover has resulted in damage and inaccurate long-distance moving quotes.

 

 

15. Pack Your Linen And Glassware

With the basic moving package, American National Movers will pack, load, unload, and assemble furniture without extra charges. However, packing linen, artwork, antiques, and fragile items will incur additional moving costs. If you are moving on a budget, pack your clothes and items in boxes to save on long-distance moving costs.