Your three options
| Rental truck | Moving container | Full-service movers | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lowest | Middle | Highest |
| Who packs and loads | You | You (or hired labor) | The movers |
| Who drives | You | The container company | The movers |
| Extra costs | Fuel, hotels, meals, insurance | Storage days, extra containers | Packing, stairs, long carries |
| Best for | Small moves, tight budgets | Flexible dates, no long drive | Large homes, less stress |
10 ways to lower the cost of any interstate move
- Sell or donate what you won’t use. Interstate moves are priced by weight.
- Move between October and April, when demand and prices are lower..
- Pick a weekday in the middle of the month..
- Book 6 to 8 weeks ahead..
- Get at least three written estimates and compare them line by line..
- Pack yourself, and pay for professional packing only for fragile items..
- Use free boxes from stores, or rent plastic bins..
- Ask for a binding or not-to-exceed estimate so the price can’t rise at delivery..
- Be flexible on the delivery date. Sharing a truck with other moves can cost less.
- Ask your employer about relocation assistance..
When cheap gets expensive
- A rental truck on a long route adds fuel, hotels, meals and days off work. Add them up before you decide.
- A quote far below others is a common sign of a moving scam that raises the price once your things are on the truck.
- Basic protection pays only 60 cents per pound per item. Valuable items may need Full Value Protection.
See the cost for your move
Every route is different. Check typical full-service costs by state and city, then get a free quote.
Frequently asked questions
What is the cheapest way to move to another state?
Renting a truck and doing everything yourself is usually cheapest in cash. Count fuel, hotels and time off work before you decide.
Is a moving container cheaper than movers?
Usually, yes. You pack and load, and the company drives, so you pay less than full service but more than a rental truck.
What is the cheapest month to move?
Usually between October and April, avoiding holidays and the end of the month.
How can I move out of state with little money?
Move as little as possible, pick an off-season weekday, pack yourself, and compare several written estimates. Some employers also offer relocation help.
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