Moving Costs: Tips and Tricks to Save Money on Your Next Move

Pricing out your move is a key element in your moving checklist. Costs will vary greatly, depending on what you plan to move and the type of moving service you choose. The good news is that although moving costs can typically exceed initial estimates, you can still have control over the general price range for your move. If you're willing to put in the sweat and effort, you can save thousands of dollars.

Key Takeaway

Moving can be expensive, but there are many ways to keep costs within your budget. It is important to do your research and determine the best option for you and your budget. With some planning and effort, you should be able to keep the cost of your move within your budget.

How Much Does It Cost To Move?

The cost of a move will vary greatly depending on the size of your home, distance traveled, and type of moving services used. Local moves typically start at around $800-$1,000 for a one-bedroom apartment, while long-distance moves would be much higher. For example, a move from Los Angeles to New York can range from $3,500-$8,000. Full-service movers are also more expensive than self-service or do-it-yourself moves where you do the packing and driving yourself. Additional costs may include packing supplies, insurance, storage fees, and miscellaneous moving services such as auto transport.

Ultimately, the cost of your move will depend on a number of factors, but with some planning and research you should be able to keep the cost within your budget.

Average Cost Of A Full-Service Move

The average cost of a full-service move can depend on a variety of factors, such as the size and weight of your items, the distance traveled, and any additional services you may require. Generally speaking, local moves are typically more affordable than long-distance moves. A local move for a one-bedroom apartment could cost anywhere from $800 to $1,000 while a long-distance move could range from $3,500 to $8,000.

Average Cost Of A DIY Move

Generally speaking, similar to using full-services to move, short-distance moves with fewer items can be more economical than long-distance moves with more items. For instance, if you are moving from an apartment with two bedrooms, a DIY move could cost around $500 to $1,000. If you’re planning a long-distance move and need to rent a truck or other vehicles, the cost could range from several hundred to a few thousand dollars.

Costs Of Moving A Pod/Storage Container- Moving a pod or storage container is an increasingly popular option for many when relocating, as it can be a more cost effective and efficient form of moving than other options. Moving pods typically range in size from 10 to 16 feet long, with the cost depending on the number of containers rented, as well as the length of time they are rented for. Generally, a 10-foot container will cost around $200 to rent for two weeks and a 16-foot container can cost around $300. Additionally, you may be subject to additional costs such as delivery charges or fees for items that exceed the weight limits of the containers.

Costs Of A Truck Rental- Truck rentals can be an economical option for someone planning a move, as they can save money on labor costs. However, they can get expensive, so it is important to consider all the associated costs of renting a truck before making any decisions. Generally speaking, truck rental companies will charge by the mile and day and additionally may charge additional fees such as fuel surcharges, taxes, rental insurance and environmental fees.

Moving Costs Compared

Moving costs can vary greatly depending on the type of move you choose. There are four main moving options, for example, full-service with packing can range anywhere from $2,540 - $8,000, while a full-service without packing can range from $2,000 -$7,000. The same goes for a storage container, where the price can range from $1,200 - $3,000, compared to a truck that can cost anywhere from $500 - $1,750.

Additional Costs To Consider

In addition to the cost of the actual move, you may also need to factor in additional costs such as packing supplies and insurance fees. Packing supplies can add up quickly depending on how many boxes you need, so it’s important to factor this into your budget. Additionally, insurance can provide extra protection in the event that any of your items are lost or damaged during the move.

Tips To Save Money On Your Move

  • Plan ahead- Research the different moving options available and compare costs. Consider whether you are renting a truck, storage container, or hiring full-service movers. Calculate all associated costs of your move such as packing supplies, insurance fees, etc. Create a budget and stick to it! Also, start collecting boxes and packing materials ahead of time so you’re not rushing at the last minute. The sooner you start, the more time and energy you'll have in the long run.

  • Ask for advice from friends- It's possible to learn about local offers and opportunities through the grapevine, and friends and family may also offer to assist you.

  • Carefully evaluate whether it would be more expensive to move an item or just replace it- Firstly, the cost of replacing the item should be compared to the cost of moving it. This includes the costs associated with any packing supplies and insurance fees. Secondly, the difficulty of moving an item should be taken into account. For example, a large piece of furniture or an appliance may be difficult and time-consuming to move.

  • Negotiate with movers- If you’re hiring full-service movers, research the market rate for the service you require and then try to negotiate a better deal by comparing rates from different companies. Make sure to get any agreement in writing.

  • Look for deals and discounts- Many companies offer discounts on moving services for students, seniors or military personnel. Additionally, you may be able to find coupons or promotional offers that can help save money. It’s also worth asking around to see if anyone you know has used a less expensive mover in the past.

  • Rent trucks or storage containers from private individuals- Instead of renting a truck or container from a moving company, you may be able to rent one directly from an individual. This can help save money and is often more convenient than dealing with a company. However, make sure to ask questions and check reviews before making a decision.

Conclusion

The bottom line about moving costs is that it can be a stressful and expensive endeavor, but there are a few ways you can save money during the process. No matter which option you choose to help you make your move, it is important to factor in all associated costs. This will help ensure that you are prepared and make it easier to stick with the estimated cost of your move. Good luck!