10 Ways To Save Money On Your Long Distance Move
Moving out of state and hiring a long distance moving company is convenient, but it can be expensive. At American National Movers, we understand the challenges of finding affordable and reliable long distance movers. We offer clear prices and great service and are dedicated to helping you save money on your long distance move.
1. Choosing Smaller Long Distance Moving Companies
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Smaller movers often offer competitive rates due to lower overhead costs, allowing you to save money on your long distance move without sacrificing quality. Small moving companies offer greater flexibility, personalized service, and even same-day, last-minute, and guaranteed delivery options.
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Research and contact small long distance moving companies like American National Movers. We've designed our business to cater to your everyday budget, and our reviews show that our movers are trustworthy.
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It's important to hire reliable long distance movers. However, you don't need to choose the most well-known company for a successful move. Medium-sized carriers can provide the same level of service at a lower cost.
2. Declutter and Downsize Your Belongings
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The more stuff you have to move, the larger the truck you'll need, resulting in higher fuel and labor costs. Decluttering before a long distance move is beneficial in two ways. It helps you start fresh in your new home and saves you money on your long distance move.
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Before you pack, get rid of items you no longer need or use. This could include old furniture, appliances, clothes, books, or anything else you haven't used in a while.
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3. Negotiate and Be Upfront About Your Budget
We've seen countless customers overpay for moving services, but negotiation can reduce your long distance moving costs. Here's how to get the best deal:
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Get Multiple Quotes: Request quotes from at least three reputable moving companies. This gives you leverage to negotiate and compare offers.
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Research Average Costs: Know the typical moving costs for your distance and move size to determine if a quote is fair. (Check out our page on How Much Does a Long Distance Move Cost? and our list of Reliable, Cheaper Moving Companies You Can Trust for more information.)
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Be Upfront About Your Budget: Tell the mover your budget range and see if they can work within it. You might be surprised at how flexible they can be. (For more detailed tips, read our article on Moving Long Distances on a Budget.)
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Consider Off-Peak Times: If your schedule is flexible, try to move during the off-season (fall or winter) or on a weekday when demand is lower.
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Be Polite but Firm: Maintain a professional and respectful tone, but don't hesitate to ask for a lower price.
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Explore Other Options: If a company is unwilling to negotiate or meet your needs, don't hesitate to explore other options. There are plenty of reputable movers out there who are willing to work with you.
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4. Have A Realistic Long Distance Moving Budget
You want to save money on your long distance relocation, I get it. But, if your budget is too low, you'll have difficulty finding a reliable moving company:
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Small Moves: Reliable moving companies charge an average cost of $3,500 for small long distance moves.
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Large Moves: Reliable movers charge an average of $6,500 for heavy shipments moving long distances.
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Pro Tip: You get what you pay for. Hiring the cheapest long distance movers is usually not the best option.
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5. Avoid High-Cost Long Distance Moving Companies
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Expensive moving companies charge $10,000 for a long distance move. But, American National Movers has an average cost of $5,500 for a Chicago to California move. If you're not moving across the country and relocating from Dallas to Houston, American National Movers charges an average of $3,000.
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Many times it's not that the price of long distance moving is too high. You have not found a mover willing to negotiate to meet your budget expectations. Keep calling moving companies, and you'll eventually find one you can afford.
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High-cost long distance moving companies include:
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North American Van Lines: Average cost $10,000.
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United Van Lines: Average cost $8,500
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Atlas: Average cost $11,000.
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Two Men And a Truck: Average Cost:$7,700,
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Mayflower Transit: Average Cost: $11,000.
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National Van Lines: Average Cost: $12,500.
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6. Get Multiple Quotes
Request quotes from at least three moving companies. This helps you compare costs and gives you the best chance at finding the best long distance movers for your needs and budget.
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Start by contacting these affordable long distance movers mentioned below:
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Allied: Reliable national moving company with 90+ years in business, with an average cost of $5,700.
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American National Movers: Affordable long distance moving company with good reviews and A+ Rating with the BBB, with an average cost of $4,500.
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American Van Lines: This company has been in business since 1995, with decent reviews and reasonable pricing compared to other national moving companies.
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7. Understanding Your Long Distance Moving Costs
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Know the average moving costs for your distance and move size. This will help you determine if a quote is fair or inflated.
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Know that the cheapest long distance moving price is not always the best deal, especially if you have a lot of high-value furniture.
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Cheap moving companies often lack the expertise consumers desire for a reliable long distance moving experience.
8. Consider Off-Peak Times
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Your long distance moving costs are based on availability. If you want to save money, consider relocating during the off-season (fall or winter) or on a weekday when demand is lower.
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In other words, try to avoid hiring movers during the summer. In the summer long distance moving companies are 35% more expensive than they would be in the winter.
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In the winter, you can move long distances from Florida to Texas for as little as $3,500. But, in the summer, the costs almost double to an average cost of $5,500!
9. Shared Load Moving
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Another way to save money on long-distance moves is to combine your shipment with someone else's furniture.
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This process involves sharing a truck with customers who share the same route.
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Shared load moving can make hiring long distance movers as affordable as renting a U-Haul or a Penske.
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10. Explore Other Moving Options
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If a company is unwilling to negotiate or meet your needs, don't hesitate to move on to another option.
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There are plenty of reputable movers out there who are willing to work with you.
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Take the time to haggle with a few moving companies to find an affordable moving company you can trust.
American National Movers: Save Money On Your Long Distance Move
By following these tips and researching, you can find an save money and find reliable long-distance mover that fits your needs and budget. It's important to remember that hiring cheapest long distance movers may not always be the best choice.
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Save money and get a free quote from American National Movers today. We focus on your needs and budget for long distance moves.