Planning a Cross-Country Move? Here’s What to Consider.
Moving cross-country can be an expensive proposition. Certainly, the cost of hiring a professional mover is more than for an intrastate move. Inter-state moving costs are regulated, but there are some “hidden” costs you need to consider, as well.
How are moving costs calculated?
The rates charged by movers depend on the distance of the move, the method and size of the move, and the weight of the items being moved. A full-service move will include the cost of labor to pack your belongings. You can, of course, choose to pack your household goods yourself (you’ll need to purchase sturdy boxes, including specialty boxes for artwork, electronics, clothing, and dishes) and packing materials. A third option is to pack some things yourself and leave the specialty packing to the pros.
The Distance of the Move.
The distance from your current home to your new location is one determining factor of the cost. The farther your move, the more you pay. Fuel costs are calculated into the distance.
The Size of the Move.
The volume and weight of your entire household is calculated into the cost. This one factor is why it is so important to consider every item you are planning to move to be sure it is something you need or might rather see, give away, or donate to charity.
The Timing of Your Move
If you move during the peak months of June through September, expect to pay more than during the winter months and early spring. You can save money if you have the flexibility to move when movers are not in their busiest season. More than 80% of people who are moving do so between April and September when the weather is at its most cooperative. Inclement weather conditions can add stress and risk of damage from rain or snow. Weigh comfort vs cost when deciding when to move, if the timing is something you can control.
The Route of Your Move.
If you are moving to and from a popular route, you will pay less than compared with an unpopular route. For example, if you are moving from New England to Florida, there will be more competition between movers for your business, and you will pay less.
Costs to Move Vehicles
If your move includes your vehicles being shipped to your new location, be sure to get separate estimates that include insurance.
Other Costs You Need to Consider
Storage
If you need to store your items prior to the actual move, if for instance, you have to move out before your new home is ready, you will need to add the cost of storage in the mover’s warehouse or in a free-standing self-storage facility. You will also pay for the moving truck to deliver your household and unload it into storage and load it on the truck again on moving day.
Insurance
Be sure to include moving insurance in your estimate. A full-value insurance package is not included in most moving estimates unless you ask for it. This will cover any losses in case of damage, theft, or loss.
Family Transportation
It may be a given, but your transportation will cost money as well. If you are flying, the price of the tickets should be added in, as well as transportation to and from the airport. This is true of train transportation. If you are driving, you will need to calculate the cost of fuel and tolls, too.
Overnight Accommodations
Traveling across the country to your new location will mean you will have to stay in a hotel while on the road for a few or several days. Be sure to add the cost of hotel and meals to your moving budget.
If you have questions about the preparation and timing for an interstate or cross-country move, call the Relocation Experts at Ayer Moving and Storage at (800) 233-6683.
If you have further questions about moving to another state or
across the country, call Ayer Moving and Storage at
1-800-233-MOVE or email. |
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