Long distance moving, also known as cross country relocation can often be an expensive, time consuming ordeal that is very frustrating for many individuals and families alike. Knowing when and how to properly execute a move across long distances can save you money and time. There are some cost saving tips that will save you money and time when relocating over long distances.
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- Picking the Right Time for Moving
- Get More than a Few Moving Quotes
- a Moving Sale to Get Rid of Unwanted Items
- Purchase High Quality Boxes and Supplies Well in Advance.
- Talk to Your Friends and Read Online Moving Reviews
- Verify License and Insurance
- Have Your Employer To Cover Corporate Relocation
In Gainesville, Florida and the United States there is a peak season for moving. This is always between the summer months of May and September. Moving companies will charge a premium for moving between these times, and if at all possible it is best to avoid this time of the year. Not only will this save you money, but it also lessens the possibility of something happening that may delay your move. The reason for this peak season is because school is out during those months, college students and family alike use this break in school to relocate both locally and long distance.
It is recommended by the State of Florida to get at least three moving quotes, preferably in writing from licensed and insured moving companies. Most companies offer over the phone, or internet quotes as well. In home estimates are the preferred method, so the movers can ask any additional questions they may come up with after surveying your home, and the layout. When moving long distance it is best to know for up front what you’re going to be dealing with and how best to prepare. Get a minimum of three competitive quotes, and make sure to ask as many questions as possible.
Having a moving sale will help you raise money for your upcomming move by getting rid of unwanted items. Often when going through a full home of items, you will be surprised at the things that you no longer use, need, or want. Waiting until the last minute to get rid of these items can be a time waster, and cost you money if you have to have the moving company discard them for you. Items that do not sell during the moving sale can often be donated to one of many different charities. Often times, the charity will pick the items up for free. Call around and see what charities may offer this service, and have your sale at least three weeks prior to your scheduled move day.
When moving long distance, it is not a good idea to use second hand boxes. It is recommended to only use high quality corrugated cardboard boxes designed for moving. Moving cross country will put a strain on the construction of the boxes, and spending the extra money in the beginning will save you from disappointment and replacement costs. Remember that if you hire the company to box your items, they will be liable, if you box them, you will be liable. The packing materials that you use will also play a huge factor in the level of protection that your items will receive while in the moving truck.
Talking to friends who have moved before is a great way to gauge a company and their expertise, as well as professionalism. If you don’t know anyone to talk to there are a lot of great review sites out there. Google places has reviews on each business with a listing, and they are user generated and moderated by Google. Another great resource for checking into companies is through www.movingscam.com. This site has a forum where users can post bad experiences. If a company is on there a lot then it is suggested to stay away from them. Just one of two postings, could mean someone had a bad experience.
Always ask the moving company for their licensing and insurance information and verify that they are in good standing. This will provide you with some protection should anything go wrong on moving day.
If You’re moving long distance because of a new job, ask your employer to cover the costs associated, or at least cover some. Most employers will help out with moving costs, and you can always deduct the cost of moving from your taxes.
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