So you’re thinking about moving to a new home. There’s a difference between just getting it done, and handling your move in the most effective and productive way possible. 

If you are starting to plot out the details for a long-distance move, cost will be one of the most important issues that you come across and need to address. 

So what kind of price should you expect to pay? What kinds of things might make your move more or less expensive? We’re glad you asked. 

Here is what you should know about long distance moving cost and how different variables affect how much you’ll pay. 

What Should You Know About Long Distance Moving Cost?

No two moves are just alike. If you alter a detail or two, you will get wildly different price bids. 

If you’re trying to hire long distance movers, always consider the following:

1. The Price Depends on the Distance

The first variable that determines price is the distance of your move. When seeking price bids, you will go to the mover and let them know the two addresses, and they will break things down to the exact mile. 

From there, you’ll know how far the move is, and they will offer you their price per mile. Perhaps you’re planning out a cross-country move, or maybe you are just relocating a few states over. Either way, this is the first part of determining a ballpark figure for how much you should expect to pay for your move. 

2. Factor in the Number of Rooms and Amount of Belongings You’re Moving

Next, you’ll need to consider the bulk of your move. This may be estimated based on the number of rooms of your home that you’re moving, or a raw count of belongings. 

Other companies will divvy this portion up based on the labor required to pack up, load, and unload your belongings. In these cases, there will be an hourly rate in addition to mileage and other circumstances. 

3. Consult With the Company to Learn Their Rates

Above all, you will need to speak with a few different companies to get price estimates on how much they will charge you for a long-distance move. Be sure to ask them their rates in writing so that you can get to know what it will cost, and whether the competition has better rates. 

When you have the price quote in writing, it becomes much easier to compare and contrast with other movers so that you know you are getting the optimal rates for your move. 

4. Consider Whether or Not It’s a Busy Season

Always remember that you will pay a bit more for your move during peak seasons. This is usually during the time from April, through the summer, all the way until September. 

These times will be busier during certain months depending on where you live, and whether you live close to a college or other institution that has mass moves each year. When you are booking a long-distance move and trying to keep your costs low, consider whether it’s a necessity to move during these peak months, or whether or not you have any flexibility. 

5. Determine if You’ll Need to Have Overnight Stays

One thing about long-distance moves is that they often come with overnight stays. Since you and the movers will be traveling several miles to get to the destination, there inevitably will be times for rest to break the trip up. 

You will typically need to pay the movers an overnight fee, in addition to arranging for your own overnight costs. Think about how much this will cost you in terms of gas money, hotels, and more. 

6. Book as Far Out as You Can

It is much easier to get a good rate on your long-distance move when you plan it far in advance. If you book your trip far out, you will have the opportunity to lock in a low rate before industry ebbs and flows begin to happen. 

This way, you can guarantee that you are getting the most affordable move possible, while also securing your ideal time block before it books up.  

7. Think About Whether You Need Any Extras or Special Services

It also behooves you to take account of every aspect of the move. Do you need any additional services or arrangements?

For instance, some people might need to book a storage rental unit during the move. Others may require special equipment or might have items or belongings that take more planning, consideration, and strategy to move safely. 

8. Determine What You’re Willing and Able to Handle on Your Own

Finally, there are always some parts of the move that you can do on your own. If you are considering going the DIY route with any aspect of your move, it means that you will also keep some money in your pocket. 

Think about whether you’re going to do any of your packing and hauling on your own, rather than having the movers do it. A little bit of sweat equity can easily save you some money on your moving costs. 

Plan Out Your Next Big Long Distance Move 

When you consider long distance moving cost, the points above are especially pertinent. These tips will be useful to you no matter what sort of move you are thinking about putting together. 

The next step is to start reaching out to professional movers that can take on the rest for you. Come back when you’d like to learn more about business, real estate, and more!