The Cheapest Way to Move Across the Country: 2026 Cost Comparison

Budget-Friendly Ways to Move Across the U.S.: A long-distance relocation can be the mark of a new chapter in any person’s life. It might mean a new job, a new relationship, or a whole new set of possibilities. However, it doesn’t come cheap. Moving across the country can undoubtedly be an expensive and stressful pursuit. The average cost for a thousand-mile journey can range up to $5,000, including rental trucks, gas, mileage, and packing fees. But don’t worry! We have plenty of tips for relocating across states without emptying your pockets. 

In this article, you’ll learn how to save money in small and meaningful ways when moving across the USA. From the planning to the packing stage, these are some creative hacks to cut down your moving costs. 

Let this article guide you in finding the most reliable and affordable way to get from point A to point B. 

1. Organize and Declutter 

It’s wise to start your budgeting plans from the get-go. Before you even buy packing supplies, organize your items first. Keep only the things that you’ll use and the things that you love. Use the KonMari Clean-up Method and ask yourself, “Does this spark joy?” If the answer is yes, then bring it with you. If the answer is no, then you may want to declutter, sell, or donate. 

You have to keep in mind that the weight of all your belongings will affect the cost of your move. The more that you keep, the higher the price of moving. Letting go of your items might be painful at first, but it can save you a couple of bucks. Donating your items or giving them away to friends and family is always a nice thing to do. What’s more is that selling your items can also help fund your relocation. Consider having a yard sale, or list your items on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace weeks prior to your move. 

Once all unnecessary items have been disposed of, you can start organizing your things. A DIY option might take a little elbow grease, but it’s cheaper than hiring professionals to do the job. 

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2. Find Free Supplies

Once your belongings have been organized, you can start gathering packing supplies for the task ahead. Necessary supplies include boxes, tapes, bubble wraps, and markers. These small items can rack up a hefty total if you buy them new. 

Get second-hand boxes, paper, and tape from neighbors and friends who have relocated recently. You can also seek out these supplies from local stores and offices nearby. Online platforms can also be utilized to find free or cheaper supplies. U-Haul Box Exchange allows their customers to trade or give away reusable boxes and moving supplies. You can also check Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and PODS. 

3. Weigh Your Options

When deciding which option is best for long-distance relocations, the task might get overwhelming. To help you decide, here’s a brief but comprehensive list of different services that you can choose from: 

• Rental Truck. One of the simplest and most budget-friendly ways to move across states is to rent a moving truck. Companies usually charge for a fixed number of rental days and unlimited mileage for long-distance moves. However, labor is not included, which means you’ll have to do the driving yourself. The service itself might be cheap, but don’t forget to factor in the cost for your gas, meals, and additional accommodations. 
• Moving Container. If you’re doing a DIY move that requires a huge storage space, renting a moving container might be the best option. You’ll have to decide on the size of the container, and the company will deliver it to your curb. The catch is that you need to do the packing and loading by yourself. On the upside, you won’t have to worry about the transportation since the company will pick up the packed container and deliver it to your new home. 
• Full-Service Mover. Pressed on time and running low on energy? For your convenience, hire a full-service moving company. They handle everything from loading, transporting, and unloading. Some companies even offer extra help in packing for an additional fee. Full-service movers are quite expensive, but there are ways to make this choice affordable as well. Get quotes from three or more different companies and compare. See if you can clinch a discount and don’t forget to ask for deductibles. Only stick with this option if convenience is the top priority for you.
• Shipping Services. An often overlooked option in moving across states is shipping. If you only have a few items to bring with you, shipping services can do the job for a really low price. While your items are getting transported to your new location, you can hop on the bus or book a flight. You won’t even have to worry about bulky luggage and extra baggage fees. Your items will be delivered to your doorsteps by the shipping company. 
• Moving Labor. As an additional service, you can hire movers to help you pack and load your belongings. This is ideal if you do not have the capability to do said activities for your relocation. This option requires less effort, and it costs less than full-service movers. 

4. Compare Company Costs

Once you’ve decided on which moving option works best for you, get quotes from three or more companies that offer the service you want. Do not settle for the first company you contact. Try to see what their competitors have to offer as well. 

When you are comparing company costs, be wise. Look for the cheapest offers, but make sure that they cover all your moving needs. Try to negotiate with your chosen company as well. Companies usually price match their competitors, so asking for a lower price will not hurt your chances to save more. 

5. Consider Shared Moving

Relocations are more common than you think. There might be another person moving along the same route as you. In this case, you can opt for shared moving and split the professional costs right down the middle. 

Ask your moving company if this option is available for you. It will lower your expenses big-time, but prepare to pay more for insurance in the event that your items get mixed up.

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6. Check for Discounts

Discounts are often elusive, but when you get them, they can make a huge difference in your expenses. Use apps and websites like Avira Safe Shopping to automatically get notified of any sales or discount coupons. You can also check the company’s website or official social media pages. Even a 10% discount is a huge saving for a service that usually costs thousands of dollars. 

7. Choose an Affordable Moving Date

If you’re allowed to choose your moving date and relocation is not time-sensitive, opt for a more affordable date. Weekends and summer dates are often pricier because of the demand. It’s the time when students are moving back from their dorms and families are trekking for their summer destination. It’s best not to get caught up in the expenses of the peak season. 

The most affordable dates for moving are during the off-season. Mid-month dates in April and October are the most ideal since there are less holidays and general traffic. Setting your move on a weekday can also be less expensive than a weekend move. Even the time you choose can save you money, so be advised to choose between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. for a budget-friendly deal. 

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8. Ask for Relocation Support

If you’re moving due to work-related reasons, your employer might be able to provide assistance. Whether it’s a location transfer or a new job altogether, ask your Human Resources department about the company’s relocation policies. 

The company could provide a partner moving company and even cover your bills. Save all of your service receipts to properly document expenses. You might be able to get a full or proportional reimbursement for them.

9. Check Your Home Insurance

Try to see if your homeowner’s insurance includes a clause for travel or relocation. If it does, the insurance should cover an all-risk protection for your goods and belongings when you do. You won’t have to pay an additional insurance fee with your moving company for risks including damage, loss, and theft. 

This way, you can secure your belongings without shelling out more cash. Contact your realtor or property lawyer for more advice. 

10. Accept Free Help

Relocating does not only affect you, but your friends and family as well. As part of your circle and community, these people can also offer voluntary help in your moving process. Don’t be shy to ask for assistance because in most cases, people are more than happy to help. 

Before you go, don’t forget to pay them back in some other way. Invite them over for dinner or give a small token of your appreciation. 

Conclusion

Relocating is an exciting pursuit, but it can also weigh heavy on your mind, body, and especially your wallet. Like all things, it can be made easier by planning ahead and finding ways to save time, energy, and money. Even with all the possible stress and expenses, it’s important to remember that this is a part of starting that new chapter of your life.