Moving to a different state can allow you to pursue new job opportunities, be closer to loved ones or enjoy a much-needed change of scenery. As exciting as those prospects might be, a long-distance move can also be pricey. If you’re on a tight household budget and trying to save money, you might assume moving out of state is beyond your financial capacity, but think again! With careful planning, it’s entirely possible to move out of state on a budget. Here are our top tips for making it happen.
1. Declutter
Unless you’re already living a minimalist lifestyle, you probably have belongings you haven’t used in a while or even some broken items you’ve been meaning to get around to fixing. Why pay more to move these from your old home to your new one?
Before moving out of state, go through your home one room at a time and sort your possessions into piles, depending on which you plan to keep, what you should throw away and anything you could sell or donate. Though decluttering can be an emotional project if you tend to get attached to material items, some practical advice can make this process a breeze.
2. Enlist Friends and Family Members
Between all the sorting, packing and planning you have to do, moving can quickly start to feel overwhelming. If you feel comfortable doing so, ask your family and friends for help. They can get involved in whatever capacity they choose, from organizing a moving sale to labeling boxes by room. Don’t forget to thank your volunteers with free food or gift cards to their favorite stores!
3. Use a Moving Calculator
Any savvy budgeter knows the value of projecting expenses in advance. A moving calculator can help you avoid surprise costs based on factors like how far you are moving out of state, the amount of belongings you plan to transport and the scope of services you’ll need help with. Playing with different variables can help you get a better idea of whether you’d like to do a DIY move, hire a professional moving company or go with a hybrid approach that combines the best of both worlds.
4. Check Cost-of-Living Differences
When moving out of state, it’s critical to research how much more – or less – you can expect to pay for essentials like utilities, groceries, clothes, gas, etc. Remember to look up tax rates, too. Each state and city has different property, sales and income taxes. The fewer expenses sneak up on you, the better off you’ll be when budgeting for your relocation to a new state.
5. Compare Quotes
When moving on a budget, it’s in your best interest to shop around! Request quotes from several moving companies to see which one can offer you the best deal. While you’re at it, you can also read reviews and testimonials from previous moving clients to learn more about the customer service and caliber of experience you can expect to receive.
Metro Atlanta’s Reliable Moving Professionals
Planning a long-distance move can be stressful, unless you choose a professional team who can handle all the logistics for you. At Fox Moving & Storage Atlanta, we’ll move you and your belongings efficiently and courteously – even on short notice. We can pack, deliver and unpack any item, no matter how bulky or fragile it may be. To learn more about how we can help you simplify your next move, contact us today!