The Cheapest Way To Move Out Of State On A Budget

Did you know that 20% of Americans moved to another state in 2021? But what is the cheapest way to move out of state?

When you're on a budget, it's not as simple as hiring a professional moving company. Yet, it's not impossible to cut your costs; you just need to get a bit more creative.

You can implement several tips to help you save money when you move. And, they are not as drastic as you may think.

So, stop stressing about how you are going to make this work. Instead, follow these easy guidelines to discover how to fund a low-cost move out of state.

The Cheapest Way to Move Out of State on a Budget

The following 16 tips will help you save money when moving out of state. It doesn't matter if you are moving a ton of furniture, or just a few suitcases, there is an option for everyone.

1. Plan Ahead

This might not be possible for everyone, but for those who have sufficient notice, start saving! Don't pay for your move on credit with high-interest rates.

You will save yourself hundreds of dollars by paying for your move in cash.

2. Out With the Old

Moving to a new state will be much easier if you have less to pack. Also, getting rid of dated items you haven't used in a while will save a lot of money.

Many people struggle with discarding their material possessions, but in the end, you can replace them with new things and memories.

To help you in this stressful time, here are some tips for decluttering your home before moving.

Make Extra Money by Selling Your Furniture

If you have a lot of big items, consider selling all or most of them before moving. For example, you might love your comfy oversized couch, but it takes up a lot of space on the truck and will be costly to move.

Use the proceeds to buy new furniture at your final destination. This will save you from a lot of cash flow issues, stress, and hard labor.

Get Organized

Place three empty boxes in each room of your home. Mark them "keep," "discard," and "donate/sell." Then, when packing up the room, sort through each item and decide which box is applicable.

Don't get sentimental; if you haven't used the item in over a year, it's time to let it go.

Involve Your Family and Friends

Try to get your family and friends involved to help motivate you to let go. It always helps to have a support system during stressful times.

Recycle Old Appliances

Almost all appliances are recyclable. Fridges, microwaves, ovens, washers, and dryers all have metals, plastic, and glass that are stripped and repurposed.

Check with the Public Works Department in your area to see if they offer a recycling pick-up service. If not, check to see if there is a RAD near you.

They offer a free pick-up service, and in some areas, they will compensate you.

3. Free Moving Boxes

Make use of various channels to aid in your move. There are numerous locations where you could pick up free moving boxes, and our top four are:

• Craiglist
• A nearby grocery store
• Liquor stores
• Book stores like Barnes and Noble

4. Use Your Car and Hire a Trailor

By moving on your own, you avoid the rising cost of a moving company. It's much cheaper to hire a tailor ($500-$700 depending on location and duration) and drive yourself.

By doing this, you can accurately calculate the fuel cost and tailor hire months before the move.

5. Find Affordable Help on uShip

Turn to uShip if you're on a budget. There are loads of people ready to help you at a low cost. However, be sure to check their ratings to ensure they are reliable.

6. Amtrak Is an Option

Not many people know this, but Amtrack gives its passengers the option of shipping 100lbs for a flat rate of $67. However, they do not ship furniture, electronics, or fragile items.

Once you have surpassed the 100lbs mark, it's an additional $0.57 per lbs, and you can ship up to 500lbs per day.

But be advised that it's your responsibility to get your items to and from the stations.

Another factor to consider is that you can only ship your items to and from select cities as their network is limited.

7. Hire a Moving Truck

If you're dead set on keeping all your furniture, you probably need to hire a moving truck. This option is more expensive than using your car and hiring a tailor, but still affordable.

For example, if you are moving from California to Texas, you can hire a truck from U-Haul starting from $2925.

8. Opt for Container

An affordable option is renting a container and shipping it to your new location. U-Haul now has the option of a U-Box.

They drop it off outside of your home, and you pack your belongings inside. Luckily, you can make use of their complimentary furniture pads for protection.

After an agreed amount of time, they pick up the container and ship it to your new destination. The container is yours for a month, so you have ample time to pack and unpack.

All this convenience comes with an even better price tag. For example, from California to Texas, a U-Box starts from $1,954.95.

9. Ship Your Possessions Using an LTL Freight Carrier

If you are a minimalist and don't have a lot of furniture to move, then LTL Freight carrier might be an option for you.

The idea is to rent out one truck to multiple clients, and the truck only leaves once all the space is sold out. Of course, this means you need to be flexible regarding moving dates.

In addition, you have to load and unload yourself and are liable for any damages sustained during transportation.

However, it is much cheaper than hiring your own truck or trailer.

10. Use the Bus

The most affordable way to move out of state is by bus. Companies like Greyhound allow each passenger a maximum of 3 bags, each weighing 50lbs.

So, if you just need to move a small number of items, this is your best option.

The only downfall is getting all your luggage to the terminal and off-loading when you get to your destination.

11. Hire a Pick-Up Truck

Hiring a pick-up instead of a truck is a lot easier on the pockets. But, this is only an option if you only have a few things and aren't traveling too far.

By overloading a pick-up, you run the risk of not securing the load properly and losing a few items along the way.

12. Ask Friends and Family for a Favor

If you can't afford to pay for help when moving, try to enlist the services of family or friends.

If they love you, they will help you, and it will allow you to spend time together. So even though there will be a lot of heavy lifting, it is definitely a bonding experience.

Create a nostalgic playlist to remind you of former road trips and turn a stressful move into a mini holiday.

13. Let Someone Else Do the Work by Hiring a Professional Moving Company

This is the most costly option, but there are professional moving companies out there that don't charge an arm and a leg.

They take care of everything, from packing, loading, furniture assembly, and unpacking.

You might be surprised and find a moving company within your budget.

There are several affordable moving companies that cater to four of the most popular relocation routes in the U.S.A. These include:

Movers From California to Texas

If you move from California to Texas with a household full of items, you will need a moving company. Unless you have a large family or friendship group willing to help you out.

Finding the best quote can be an arduous experience. Luckily, you can visit State to State Moving Systems and get multiple quotes in one place to make things easier.

To find the cheapest moving companies from California to Texas, all you have to do is fill out a simple form.

Movers From New York to Florida

Are you giving up the busy lifestyle New York offers for fun and sun in Florida? There are numerous moving companies offering affordable services catering to this route.

Find the cheapest moving companies when applying for multiple quotes by filling in a quick form.

Let the professionals do their jobs and take the stress off your shoulders.

Movers From Florida to New York

If you move from Florida to New York, you need to find a trusted moving company that won't break the bank.

When searching through State to State Moving Systems, you can view the rating for each moving company. This helps you make an informed decision.

Asking for multiple quotes is as easy as filling in a short form, which helps find the most affordable company to suit your needs.

Movers From New Jersey to Florida

More and more people are moving to the southern states. Leaving New Jersey for Florida is appealing because of the low cost of living, entertainment, and warm weather.

But finding a budget-friendly moving company isn't easy. Luckily, you have access to several free quotations by filling out this quick form.

14. Insurance Is Important but Not Necessary for Everything

All reputable moving companies offer insurance, and you would be smart to take it. However, you don't have to insure every single item. You can save a lot by only insuring the most valuable pieces.

Another great tip is to check if your homeowner's insurance policy includes moving insurance. If they do, you can save a ton of money.

15. Ask Your Employer For a Relocation Package

Employers will cover your moving expenses in some cases, which is called a relocation package. However, not all companies offer this benefit, so it is best to check if you qualify for one.

Usually, the company will raise this topic in the interview or during benefit negotiations. Relocation packages are often offered to new hires moving out of state.

When negotiating, do your research first. For example, find out if other employees received this benefit in the past, which will give you a stronger case.

16. Choose the Right Month and Day to Move

This might seem a little silly, but you can save yourself thousands of dollars by choosing the right time to move.

Moving companies charge inflated rates during the summer months because of the boom in business. But, in the winter, fees are considerably lower, and moving companies have more availability.

Generally, most people have to move out at the end of the month, so prices soar during that time.

Picking the right day is also crucial. For example, moving during the week is cheaper than weekends or public holidays.

So, by choosing a move date mid-month on a weekday, you can significantly decrease the cost of your move.

Five Hidden Moving Costs You Need to Know About

When budgeting for an out-of-state move, you need to ensure you remember to account for every cent. But, many people forget about these five hidden moving costs:

• Utility deposits
• Lodging for your pets
• Forgetting to discontinue services like cable and internet
• Replacing food
• Moving insurance

Find the Most Affordable Out of State Moving Company

Even though a bus is the cheapest way to move out of state, hiring a moving company is still the best option.

By picking a reputable moving company, you will ensure all your items are professionally:

• Wrapped
• Loaded
• Transported
• Unpacked

So, put down the bubble wrap and tape; you can still afford to hire a professional moving company on a budget.