When planning to move across state lines, staying within budget is a top priority. The cost of cross country moves can vary depending on numerous factors; every move is unique with no common price. For example the cost to move a two bedroom apartment cross country could be more than you think. However, in every case, there are ways to save money.
How Much Does It Cost When Moving Out Of State?
If you’re worried that moving will be too expensive, relax. There are options to make moving affordable for any budget. For example, choosing to hire professional movers can save you time and money when it comes to planning, organizing, packing, and protecting your most valuable possessions. Here are some guides to help you understand what you’ll expect to pay based on how you choose to move.
Cost of Do It Yourself Moves
If you choose a DIY move, you can expect to spend about $3000 or so to rent a truck big enough to accommodate a three-bedroom home. This could be an option If you have very few belongings that don’t require special care. While you may save costs upfront, with a DIY move, you need to factor in all the other costs that come along with it: gas, moving supplies, time and expertise. Moving can be daunting, and having an experienced ally can take things off your plate, provide additional moving and packing resources, set up storage for you upon arrival, and perform most of the heavy lifting. Furthermore, if you do move yourself across state lines, it’s important to know what type of protection your belongings will have if something happens to them on the move.
Cost of Moving with Container Services
Containers services are a popular alternative to moving yourself, and for a three-bedroom home, moving about 1500 miles, the cost of a storage container could be approximately $4,500. Choosing a container service will have some of the benefits of a professional moving company, such as transporting your belongings. Packing services and loading will be your responsibility, though. Because these services vary in feature offerings and price, they may not be a great solution if you have large-screen TVs, fine artwork, or special moving needs. Because these services take a budget-friendly, hands-off approach, you may find that these moving services are not as helpful as a full-service national moving company.
Cost of Movers
Professional movers costs will vary, depending on the size of your home, number of belongings and how far you are moving. However, with the price of movers will include a full-service experience from planning to moving day.
Most national movers will have checklists and planning resources, and some will provide extra hands or packing materials, packing services to help prepare for the move. Long distance moving companies offer protection for valuables in transit, and they’re usually prepared to move items that require special shipping or handling instructions. Some may even have storage options to avoid clutter during the unpacking process. Ultimately, hiring a national moving company may cost a bit more financially, but offers peace of mind and a commitment to quality service before, during, and after your move.
As you determine which type of move is right for you, take a note of any items that need special shipping and handling instructions. Musical instruments, fine art, or even family heirlooms such as grandfather clocks and specialty items need specialty experience to be packaged and handled with care. You’ll also want to learn about valuation protection for your items in transit — most movers, National Van Lines included, provide various options for protection.
What Do I Do Next?
The next step is one of the easiest and friendliest ways to find the cost of a cross country move: get a free quote. When you speak with a national moving company, you’ll have the chance to ask questions, learn about the moving process, and find the best solution for your trip. You can always ask for a checklist, moving guide, or information about additional services such as specialty moving, corporate relocation services, and packing materials. A free quote is the best way to estimate the cost of cross country moves, and it’s a great chance plan ahead for the future and builds your relationship with your moving company.
