Need to relocate but don’t have much money saved? Learn how to plan an affordable long-distance move with these money-saving tips.
Whether you’re moving for a new job or pursuing a dream in another part of the country, a long-distance move can get expensive. But with some careful planning and clever solutions, you can pull off a budget long distance move successfully. This guide covers all the cost-cutting strategies you need.
When initially preparing for an affordable long haul move, research long distance moving companies Edmonton and nationwide to compare rates. Consider renting a small moving truck and enlisting friends to help pack and load to avoid steep moving company fees. If hiring movers, obtain binding estimates from multiple services before booking.
Choose a Budget-Friendly Moving Date
Typically, the most cost-effective times to relocate long distances are during September, October, and the winter months. Demand declines, and moving companies offer discounts. Some potential money-saving moving dates include:
- Early September
- Mid-October through November
- January to mid-March
Moving between June and August tends to be the most expensive when demand spikes as families relocate over summer break.
Pro tip: For maximum savings, aim to book your move on a weekday if possible. Weekend rates can run higher.
Downsize Your Possessions Strategically
When money is tight, put items you rarely use on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or consign them to earn extra cash. Prioritize only the essentials and most meaningful belongings to transport in your move.
Consider selling or donating:
- Extra furniture pieces
- Excess decor you no longer use
- Old sports/exercise gear
- Outdoor equipment (if moving to a small city apartment)
- Books and home goods in storage
Every little bit helps offset moving expenses. Remove items from your home room-by-room to pare down efficiently.
Use Portable Moving Containers
For a more affordable DIY move, portable moving containers offer logistical flexibility compared to truck rentals. With this option:
- Containers are delivered to your home
- You pack them on your schedule
- A moving company transports them
- You unload containers at your new home
With more time flexibility, you can pack intelligently over weeks to reduce stress. It also cuts truck rental fees if you pack yourself.
Research multiple moving container companies as pricing varies. Establish guaranteed costs upfront to prevent surprise charges.
Pack Smartly Yourself
From boxes to tape and bubble wrap, packing supplies add up fast. Rather than purchasing everything brand new:
- Ask local grocery and department stores for used boxes
- Use old newspapers, towels, or blankets to pad delicate items
- Wrap fragile goods in old t-shirts, socks, or plastic bags
- Find free newsprint paper from newspaper distributors to use as wrapping paper
- Use space bags to compress off-season clothes and bedding neatly
Pack room-by-room and label all boxes clearly with their destination room at your new home. This streamlines unpacking significantly.
Compare Temporary Lodging Rates
During an extended move, you may need lodging en route based on mileage. To keep costs reasonable on accommodation:
- Book rooms along your route in advance
- Check rates for extended-stay hotels vs. nightly hotels
- Consider Groupon deals for discounted hotel prices
- Compare rates using apps like Hotel Tonight
- Research Airbnb options for full amenities and comfort
Avoid booking at the last minute as availability declines and prices often surge.
Make a Moving Budget (and Stick to It)
When orchestrating a long-distance relocation budget, make an itemized moving budget you can reference at each step.
Factor costs for:
- Movers or truck rental fees
- Gas/mileage
- Lodging
- Food and essentials
- Boxes, supplies, equipment
- Storage fees, if needed
- Utility connection charges
- Rental truck insurance
Adhere closely to your predefined budget to curb extraneous costs. Having a roadmap prevents wasted spending and overlooked expenses during an intensive, stressful move.
Relocating long distances without breaking the bank is achievable with some strategic planning using these handy tips.
Determine what moving support you need, carefully pare down possessions, and compare shops to find the best rates for moving vehicles, temporary lodging, and supplies.
Maintain an itemized budget and moving timeline to stay on track. You’ll be settled in your new hometown affordably in no time!
