10 Tips on How to Save on Long-Distance Moves

Moving long-distances is not only very draining physically and emotionally, it can be very expensive. There are ways to save some money here and there that can really make a difference. These tips will also help ease the burden of the move beyond cost. Here are the 10 cost saving tips that will save you a bunch on long-distance moves. 

1. Decluttering before a move can save your sanity and some money. This step is essential if you are moving into a smaller space. By getting rid of junk, you won't need to figure out where to put the junk in your new place. It also will save you time with hourly and weight costs if you hiring movers. You can either try donating items or selling items to get rid of the stuff you just don't need anymore. You can also try recycling or chucking items that do not have any use.  

2. Shop around for your movers, moving van, storage or any other services that you may be using for you long-distance move. Do not be afraid to call around and ask for quotes from as many places as you can. If a service is significantly cheaper, you may want to be cautious about using them. Moving scams are an unfortunately common occurrence in the moving industry, so it is better to err on the side of caution.   

3. Pick the right time to move! Most people move during the summer, the end of the month, holidays and on weekends. All of these times you are not going to get the best price on any moving services you may be using. The slowest time for moving companies is in the middle month, and you usually can save considerable money if you move during the time. If your moving dates are flexible, consider moving in an off-peak time. 

4. Choose your boxes appropriately. Some things we don't mind just throwing in any old box we found behind the grocery store, dumpster, etc., but some delicate items need special packaging. If you have items that are delicate make sure to use boxes that will not break, and add extra padding with newspapers and styrofoam. Also, if you are moving in extremely hot or cold weather, you may want to consider special packaging for electronics and other items that are sensitive to temperature.

5. Hire professional movers. Sometimes getting neighbors, friends, college students or whoever is cheap to pack our stuff up is great. In a long distance move to save your stuff from any serious damage, you may want to consider hiring professionals. With the right company any damage done to your items will be insured. Also, good movers know how to pack stuff so it won't get damaged.

6. Make sure you are insured or at least know what you are covered for. If you are using a moving company or moving van, make sure that you are insured in all ways possible. Specifics will be in your contract with the moving company and your homeowner's insurance. Now is the best time to figure out what you are or are not covered for. Even if you are not covered, it is good to know what you need to be extra careful with.

7. Read mover reviews! Moving scams are a problem in the moving industry. Fortunately, the internet has made reviews of movers readily available. Check individual reviews and reports on moving companies from the Better Business Bureau (BBB). More than likely you and your stuff will be fine, but it is good to try to avoid problems when you are moving.

8. Make sure the company is accredited by the BBB. Companies that are will be the least likely to give you any trouble during your long--distance move.

9. Look-up gas prices beforehand. With the high cost of gas, long-distance moves are expensive as ever. With the internet, you can look-up cheap stops to get gas. If you have a smart phone, you can look-up the cheapest gas to your location using GPS. If you do not have a smart phone you can plan gas stops in advance.

10. Get a tax write-off for you move. If you are moving for your job, moving is considered a business expense. In order to qualify you have to work for the same place for a year after a move, and move what is qualified to be a long-distance.