Whether you’re heading across state lines to pursue a new career opportunity or to be closer to family and friends, moving to another state can be exciting. However, you may also wonder if you can afford it. Some costs associated with a cross-country move can be challenging to anticipate, especially if you have never embarked on an out-of-state relocation before. Here are some tips.

Start With a Budget

When trying to get your arms around a project the size of an interstate relocation, creating a realistic budget is the first step in making sure you don’t bite off more than you can chew. Fairly early in this process, you’ll probably find there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question, “How much does it cost to move out of state?” That’s because the total price tag of an interstate move can vary widely based on factors like how far you’re going, how much stuff you need to move and the cost of add-ons like packing supplies.

One helpful place to start budgeting is by requesting quotes from a few reputable local moving companies like Fox Moving and Storage. Then, you can compare those to the prices of renting a moving truck or a portable storage unit, and weigh all that information against some potential hidden expenses of DIY cross-country moving.

The Hidden Costs of DIY Moving

Can you put a price tag on how much your time, energy and peace of mind are worth? Most people don’t think about things in those terms, but in the case of an undertaking like planning and executing a move to another state, it’s relevant to do a little mental calculation.

For instance, you may be surprised to find that preparing for a long-distance move can be emotionally draining and time-consuming. By carefully packing all your belongings and transporting them for you, professional movers will take some of that stress off your shoulders.

Experienced movers also know how to lift heavy, bulky items and load them into a truck without hurting themselves or leaving scuff marks or holes in walls and furniture. If you pull a muscle while trying to shift a couch or bookshelf by yourself, you could be out of commission for days. Meanwhile, damaging your furniture or other precious belongings in a DIY move is heartbreaking and will leave you paying for the expense of replacing it out of pocket.

Finally, a do-it-yourself move may end up being hundreds or even thousands of dollars more expensive than you anticipated if you fail to budget for extras like fuel charges, rental fees, storage and supplies like tape, boxes and packing materials.

Are You Moving Soon?

At Fox Moving and Storage, we appreciate the multifaceted challenges a long-distance move can bring. Whether you’re moving to or from Knoxville, we are here to provide cost-efficient, time-saving services. Let us expertly pack your belongings, label each box and load them into our trucks. When we arrive at your destination, we’ll unload and unpack for you, so you don’t have to worry about a thing. Our team is ready to help you 24/7, and can move you with as little as one hour’s notice. Contact us today and let us show you why our customers love working with us!