_{SOURCE: forbes.com}

Thinking about making a big move? We’ve got some tips for you!

There are several factors that can impact the moving costs associated with a cross-country move. From packing tips to finding a new home, we’ve got you covered.

Here are affordable ways to move across the country:

1. Do-It-Yourself Move

Doing everything yourself will eliminate the cost of labor, which, in most cases, makes a full-service move more expensive. 

2. Hybrid Move

Luckily, for a DIY move, you have the option of picking which part of the moving process you want to do yourself. You can hire some help to pack and load the truck to save time. Or, to get the most bang for your buck, ask friends and family to help with packing and loading.

3. Rent a Moving Container

These containers, also known as moving pods, help make moving more convenient. You can have one dropped off at your house, and then you can fill it up yourself at your leisure. Once filled, schedule a pickup and the portable moving container company picks it up and ships wherever you need it to go. You typically pay a flat rate for each container.

4. Use a Freight Trailer

This option is similar to using a moving pod. You will handle the packing and unpacking yourself, and a professional freight transporting company will transport it across the country for you. Freight trailers are large, typically a 28-foot trailer, so it’s a good option for a large home.

5. Ship It

Shipping your possessions across the county is a viable option if you don’t have much to move. It’s convenient, fast and can save you a considerable amount of money, especially if you use the ground service option offered by the top shipping companies.

6. Moving During the “Off-Season”

If your moving date is flexible, move between October and April, and try to avoid the weekends, as moving during the week is less expensive.

7. Save Money on Packing Supplies

In the grand scheme of things, packing supplies may seem like a drop in the bucket when it comes to moving costs. Score used boxes from grocery stores or get them from people who have recently moved. Getting your moving supplies for little to no money will allow you to spend more towards truck rental, shipping costs or other unexpected expenses that may pop up during the move.

8. Declutter and Garage Sale

Decluttering before you start packing is always a great idea. A garage sale is an excellent way to make extra cash to pay for moving supplies or other moving expenses.

9. Look for Discounts

Many moving companies run discounts all year round. Many of these discounts are based on affiliation such as military or AAA. 

10. Ask for Help

Extra hands are always welcomed when packing up for a move. Labor is by far the most expensive aspect of moving. Call in favors or ask friends and family to pitch in. 

Moving across the country can be a daunting task, but with a little preparation and a lot of caffeine, you can make it happen.

Ready to move into a new home? Let’s chat!