Moving interstate is a big decision. There are many factors to consider when deciding whether or not it's the best choice for you and your family, including how much it will cost you in terms of both time and money.
However, there are ways to save on an Interstate move so that you can have more financial flexibility during this transitional period.
Here are some tips on saving money when moving interstate.
1. Start early
The earlier you start the moving process, the better. For instance, if you're going to be packing and filling boxes on your own, start this process as soon as possible. Please make a list of everything that needs to get done so that you can stay organized and take it one step at a time.
When you pack your stuff, make sure you take an inventory. You can use both written and digital forms for this - make at least 2 copies of each form (one for the box number, one to keep in your household inventory). By making an inventory, you'll be able to track everything that was moved in case it goes missing or gets damaged in transit.
Also, by starting as early as possible, you'll have more time to determine what steps you need to take to qualify for discounts on an interstate move. For example, suppose your new job is 50 miles or more from where you're moving. In that case, you should consider contacting your company's human resources department and asking them about their moving reimbursement policy.
2. Find moving services that fit your budget
The cost of hiring a company to handle the actual move for you can vary depending on how much stuff you have, whether or not you want them to pack it up, etc. Some companies are perfectly fine with moving boxes filled with random items already in your house (clothes, books, dishes, etc.), while others don't want to touch this stuff.
The best way to find a moving company that fits your budget is to shop around and get estimates from several different companies. If you're hiring movers, be sure to ask them what sort of compensation they offer for referrals (a percentage off the cost of service or a one-time cash bonus).
3. Don't forget to pack your moving-related paperwork
To move from state to state, you'll need more than just an inventory and several boxes full of stuff:
• Vehicle registration/renewal forms
• Driver's license
• Proof of address (deed, lease agreement)
• Marriage certificate/divorce papers
• Birth certificates for children
It's best to double-check with your new state that any paperwork you have isn't expired. Also, if you're moving out of state with the intent of registering to vote there, then bring your voter registration card or other information that proves where you currently live (utility bill, bank statement, etc.).
There may be other items you need to move out of state besides your household inventory and paperwork:
• Business-related items (products that are subject to sales tax)
• Personal property tax/state inheritance tax forms
• Seasonal clothing or equipment (snow tires for a car during winter months, surfboards when going to the beach in summer)
• Sporting equipment (fishing rods, skis)
The aforementioned list is not exhaustive. Make sure you double-check that you have all of your paperwork for both moving out of state and into a new one. If you're confused about what to do or don't have enough time to prepare yourself, hire a moving company that will take care of the entire process for you.
4. Ask your movers about discounts and promotions before signing any contracts
When moving on a low budget, make sure you ask them about their discounts/promotions for customers in the military or teachers. You might also be able to negotiate certain deals depending on your needs. For example, suppose you're moving during the winter when it's harder for companies to find drivers (fewer people move in cold weather months). In that case, they may be willing to offer you a deal that includes "free nights" (when they don't charge per hour) or other offers that compensate for the holiday season.
5. Look into rental truck rates and available locations if you're driving items to your new home yourself
If it makes more sense for you to rent a moving truck instead of hiring movers, then make sure you check out different companies' rates (visit company websites or call them) and availability (can they drop a truck off at your location, if you need it to be there by a certain date).
Also, keep in mind that trucks come in different sizes/capacities. If you're moving from one apartment to another or from a dorm to an apartment, then a small- or medium-sized truck might work best for you. If you're moving out of a house into an apartment, then a large truck or trailer might be appropriate. You can also rent trailers from some places if the distance from your old home to your new one is less than 150 miles.
6. Plan for contingencies and emergencies
Don't rely on everything going smoothly during your move - because it probably won't. Things happen, and things break.
For example, if you're driving your items to the new state yourself, then be prepared for messy weather that might slow down your trip (a snowstorm, a burst tire). If you're hiring movers to transport your goods using their truck(s), plan for problems that might arise, such as the truck being rerouted due to road closures/construction.
If you hire movers, ask them what you should do in case of an emergency (if something happens to your goods during transport). Before hiring any moving company, make sure they are insured and have reviews from past customers indicating that they actually do what they say they will (follow through with promises, don't break your goods, etc.).
When you're moving out of state, and there's a chance you might need extra time to find housing (or school), try to put aside some money in case it takes longer than expected. This will help prevent unnecessary stress and potential financial problems.
7. Think creatively about ways you can save money on your move
If you hire movers, ask them if they have certain discounts for customers who are employers of a specific company or employees of a specific university (such as free nights/discounts during summer months when the school year is over).
You also might be able to find discounted moving rates online or in the classifieds. Sometimes, people will advertise their services on sites such as Craigslist. They're willing to work for less money than a traditional mover because they're either running their own business (freelancers) or saving up for something (a house, school).
Just remember: if it sounds too good to be true (no money upfront, rates lower than the average), then there's a chance it is not, and you might not get your goods moved across state lines in the guaranteed timeframe.
Conclusion
Moving out of state can be an expensive process. But, with the right planning and research, you can save money on it. By exploring different moving services (renting your own truck or trailer instead of hiring professional movers), asking for discounts/offers that apply to your situation, and thinking outside the box about ways to spend less (rental truck rates, hiring freelancers/small businesses), you'll be able to save on your Interstate move.
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