Cheapest way to move furniture out of state

Are you looking for the cheapest way to move out of state? 

I know the struggle of trying to find a moving option that meets your needs and your budget.  It can feel overwhelming and hopeless at times.

Or at least that’s how it used to be…until I made this list of 7 cheap ways to move out of state!

I’ve also included tons of pro tips, coupons, and strategies to save you money and avoid problems along the way.

Let’s get started.

Here are the top 7 cheapest ways to move out of state in 2021

1. Take The Bus
2. Moving By Train
3. Rent A Small Tow Trailer
4. Rent A Pick-Up Truck
5. Cheap Moving Truck Rentals
6. Use A Moving Container (POD)
7. Find Affordable Movers Here

STOP! Before you read any further…

I strongly suggest that you take one minute to use our free deal finder tool.

Provide us with a few quick details about your move to receive free, no-obligation estimates from up to 6 companies best-matched to move you.  We’ll make sure you find any deals, discounts or promotional offers that you may have missed otherwise.

Even if you don’t find the deal you were hoping for, you will still learn the price you need to beat with another moving option.  It’s a win-win situation that can save you hundreds, or possibly even thousands, on your move.

Click here to find affordable movers in your area!

Now that you know the price you need to beat by another method, its time to learn about the ways you can do that.

#1 – Take The Bus

Taking the bus is the cheapest way to move out of state if you don’t have many possessions. 

If you can stay under 250lbs of stuff to move, and you don’t have any bulky furniture or large boxes, then this is your best bet for moving cheaply!  For tickets, availability, limits and restrictions, visit the Greyhound website.

Benefits of moving by bus

• It’s the cheapest way to move out of state without furniture.
• You can move up to 250lbs of stuff with you.
• Once you are on the bus, you can relax and enjoy the trip!

Additional costs, limits and restrictions

• You are limited to 250lbs of luggage and small boxes.
• It’s not a reliable way to move furniture and larger items.
• You cannot take your pets on the bus.
• It’s not possible to move your vehicle(s) this way.
• Boxes tend to get tossed around and stuffed in, so pack accordingly.
• You’ll need to get your stuff to and from the station.
• There are a lot of stops, so plan accordingly for a long travel time, food, and overnights.

More tips for moving out-of-state on a bus

• 
  Check with Greyhound for size and weight restrictions ahead of time.
• Make sure that there is a bus route from your current home town to your new town or city.
• Decide how you will get your stuff to and from the bus station. (Uber, Lyft, taxi, friends and family)
• Safely pack your fragile items to protect them during the move.

#2 – Take The Train For Scenic Savings

Moving out-of-state by train is one of the cheapest ways to move to a different state. 

While the cost is still higher than moving by bus (on average), you are able to move more stuff with you by train.

Currently, Amtrak allows you to ship 500lbs per day from station-to-station.  If you have more than 500lbs of stuff, you can break your stuff up into multiple loads.  Make sure to pick up your stuff at the station within 48 hours of delivery to avoid extra storage fees.

Benefits of moving by train

• It’s much cheaper than moving yourself or hiring someone to do it.
• You are allowed to ship 500lbs of luggage and boxes per day.
• Amtrak allows 1 cat or dog (under 20lbs) for $25 extra. *restrictions apply
• It’s a scenic and memorable experience.

Additional costs, limits and restrictions

• Stations are limited, so make sure to check if this is a viable option.
• You are responsible for getting your stuff to and from your home to the station.
• They do not allow pets on trips longer than 7 hours travel time.
• You cannot move your vehicle(s) this way.
• The train is not a good choice for over-sized boxes or furniture.
• Boxes and luggage are NOT handled with care, so pack accordingly!
• Frequent stops make for longer travel time.

More tips for moving out-of-state on a train

• 
  Use extra padding for breakable items to keep them safe.
• Plan your overnight accommodations ahead of time.
• Make sure you have a way to get your stuff home from the station.
• Take food and snacks with you to cut down on food costs.
• Check with Amtrak ahead of time for any additional fees and restrictions.

#3 – Rent A Moving Trailer And Tow It

If you have a vehicle with a tow package and trailer hitch, then this is one of the cheapest ways to move a small load!

Do you have just a little too much to move using your vehicle alone?  If so, then renting a small trailer for your out-of-state move might be the cheapest solution.  Just make sure you have the correct tow package and power to pull one.

This is a great way to move a few bulky items that you couldn’t take with you otherwise.  Check with U-haul for sizes and availability in your area.

Benefits of renting a tow trailer to move

• It’s significantly cheaper than renting a moving truck or storage pod.
• You can move in the comfort of your own vehicle.
• You can take larger boxes and furniture that won’t fit in your vehicle.

Additional costs, limits and restrictions

• You will need a vehicle with a tow package and hitch.
• It can be difficult to find a trailer for rent in some areas.
• Large couches, refrigerators, washer/dryer, etc probably won’t fit.

More tips for moving out-of-state with a trailer

• 
  Make sure everything is secure to avoid shifting and sliding.
• Choose gas stations that are easy to pull your trailer through.
• Practice backing up and making wider turns to avoid accidents.
• Make sure to get optional insurance to cover any damage.
• Slow down over speed bumps and curbs.
• Secure the door with a pad-lock to deter thieves.
• Think about temperature-sensitive items before you leave.
  • Winter – Liquid items stored back there can freeze easily.
  • Summer – Items can melt or com-bust under excessive heat.

#4 – Rent A Pick-Up Truck For Small Loads

One of the cheapest ways to move a small load in one day.

Renting a pick-up truck to move out of state works for people who can move a small load in one day.  If you will need more than one day to move, then this will become expensive quickly.   For anyone who can load up their belongings in the back and move in one day, check into this before overspending!

Benefits of renting a pick-up for moving

• It’s cheaper than renting a moving truck for one day.
• You can move a small load pretty easy.
• You can fit more people or pets in the cab than a moving truck.
• They are comfortable to travel in.

Additional costs, limits, and issues

• It’s expensive if you need more than 1 day to move.
• There is no insurance for your stuff, so be careful!
• You will need straps, stretch cords, or rope to tie everything down.
• Rain, wind or sun damage can occur when your stuff is exposed.
• You need to lift everything into the back without a ramp.

More tips for moving with a pick-up truck

• 
  Make sure everything is properly strapped down and cannot move.
• Cover anything in the back that you don’t want dirty or wet.
• Check and tighten straps every time you stop.

#5 – Rent The Cheapest Moving Truck

Renting a moving truck and doing all the work yourself is the cheapest way to move out of state with furniture.

That being said, it is also the most exhausting, stressful, and accident-prone way to move.  If you have more boxes and furniture than would fit in a truck or small trailer, and you don’t have the money to hire movers, then this is your best choice for a tight budget. That is because you will be doing ALL of the packing, loading, driving, and unloading on your own.

Benefits of renting a moving truck

• It’s the cheapest way to move a household with furniture.
• You can move 1 vehicle behind you if you get the proper truck & tow package upgrade.
• Your stuff will get to your new home the same time you do.

Additional costs and issues with moving truck rentals

• You will have to pay for all the gas, which can add up very quickly.
• Insurance is an optional upgrade that you should always purchase.
• You will be financially responsible for damages that aren’t insured.
• Accidents can happen very easily during lifting, driving, and unloading.
• There are only 2 or 2 1/2 seats per truck!
• Trucks don’t have a rear-view mirror, so be careful backing up!
• Moving long distances in a rental truck is not fun or comfortable.
• These trucks really get blown around by strong wind gusts, so be aware.
• Many trucks have speed governors that top out at 65mph
• Furniture will shift and slide and break if you don’t pack properly.
• The AM/FM radio and bad speakers almost make the drive worse.
• Driving in crowded cities and trying to park can be a nightmare.
• Costs are higher when school is out. (weekends/holidays/summer)

More tips for moving out of state with a rental truck

• 
  Keep the gas tank full.  Don’t let it get too low through sparsely populated states.
• Always purchase insurance to avoid outrageous damage fees!
• Make sure to note any dents, scratches, or imperfections with the rental company before leaving the lot so you don’t get charged for them.
• Drive VERY slow over speed bumps and curbs to avoid damaging your stuff.
• Ask friends and family to help you load and unload the truck.
• Make sure to pad your furniture and electronics to keep them safe.
• Get a thick lock for the back to deter thieves.
• Pack your big and heavy stuff low, and lighter stuff up high for the best results.
• Don’t leave room on the floor for things to slide around.
• Move during a week when school is in session for cheaper deals.
• Take your time and don’t rush things.

All of these things should be factored into your total moving costs before choosing the “cheapest” way to move out of state.  Believe me when I say that the extra time, stress and effort it takes can really make you wish you would have hired the professionals.

#6 – Portable On-Demand Storage (Moving Containers)

This is an affordable option for people who are okay with doing the hard work, but don’t want to drive.

Moving PODS (portable on-demand storage units) have become a happy medium between full-service movers and moving truck rentals.  While they are still more expensive than renting a truck, they will save you the added stress of driving.  You will still be responsible for all of the heavy furniture lifting, packing, and loading unless you choose to hire help for that as well.

How moving pod rentals work

1. A moving pod company will drop off a portable container to your address.
2. You will be responsible for securely loading it up with all of your stuff.
3. When you’re finished, the company will come back and load it up on their truck.
4. They will drive it to your new home and drop it off.
5. You will be responsible for unloading everything there.
6. Once it is unloaded, they will come pick up the empty container.  That’s it!

Benefits of using a moving pod to move out of state

• You don’t have to drive a large truck full of stuff.
• It’s slightly cheaper (on average) than full-service movers.
• You and your family (and pets) can enjoy the ride together in your own vehicle.
• In some cases, you can share a container with others for even more savings.

Additional costs, limits, and issues with moving containers

• Rental locations and availability can be scarce depending on your area which makes things very expensive on your end.
• There can be drop-off restrictions for apartment complexes and inner city areas, so make sure to ask about those ahead of time.
• You will need to do all the packing, lifting, and loading labor yourself if you want to save money over hiring movers.
• Costs are higher when school is out. (weekends/holidays/summer)

More tips for renting a moving pod

• 
  Make sure to pack the container wall-to-wall to make sure your stuff doesn’t slide around.
• Contact your apartment complex or building owner to discuss drop-off dates.
• Check for  low cost out-of-state moving companies here first to see how much you can even save this way.
• Move during the week when school is in session for the lowest rates.
• Ask friends and family to help you load and unload.

I recommend using u-Pack for all moving pod rentals. They have the 2nd largest network of locations in the USA (next to U-haul) and their prices are hard to beat.

Don’t commit to a moving pod company until you check option #7 first!

#7 – Find Affordable Movers Here

Finding the cheapest state-to-state moving company is the easiest way to save hundreds on your move!

I know you might be thinking  “I can’t afford to hire movers David, that’s why I’m here!“.  Before you jump to that conclusion, let me explain why this can be the best option of all.

It’s quick, it’s FREE, and you can compare no-obligation estimates from up to 6 out-of-state movers in one place!

How to find the best deal on out-of-state movers:

1. Click here to fill out our short form with a few basic details about your move. (Takes less than 1 minute)
2. Our system will compare and match you with all the moving companies available to move you in your area for the dates you select.  They will each provide you with a free, no-obligation estimate for you to compare.
3. Choose the moving company with the lowest rates, or use that price as your price to beat by other means. It’s that easy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I trust the moving companies I receive free quotes from?

Yes! All of the local and long distance moving companies in our network are properly licensed and fully insured to do business in the USA.

We only allow reputable movers to join our network after a thorough screening  and verification process.

You will only be matched with the movers in our network that are qualified to service your move based on the details and dates you provide.

Can I really find cheap out-of-state movers?

Yes and no.

The word “cheap” is based on perspective.  Moving out-of-state, for most people here, is an expensive task no matter the method they choose to take.

What we offer is a quick and easy way to find the cheapest out-of-state movers available for your move.  We do this by comparing costs from multiple companies in one place to find you the best deal possible!

We have successfully matched over 100,000 people with affordable moving companies since 2012.

Why are some movers so much cheaper than others?

Competition!

More competition means cheaper prices and better deals.

By making state-to-state movers compete directly for your business, they are forced to lower their rates or lose potential customers.

It is normal practice for a moving company that needs more business to run a big discount special that significantly undercuts the rest of the pack.

If you get approached by a moving company for a direct quote, they have no incentive to give you the cheapest deal they can.  Instead, you will find yourself in a high-pressure sales pitch with the intent to make you commit to them on the spot for the highest price they can squeeze out of you.

When you choose CheapMovingTips.com to get your free moving estimates, we make sure that all of the available moving companies in your area compete with each other for your business.  This always results in lower costs, zero pressure, and a much better overall experience for you the consumer.

It takes less than one minute to get your free quotes and know the best deals available from the movers in your area.

Click here to find low cost out-of-state movers now!

Benefits of comparing long distance movers

• The easiest way to save HUNDREDS, or possibly more, on your move.
• It is cheaper than POD/container service in many instances.
• It’s quick and FREE to find the cheapest deals available for your move
• Movers are trained professionals who know how to safely move your stuff.
• Moving companies must be fully bonded and insured. They will reimburse you for any damages or accidents that may occur.
• It’s by far the most relaxing, stress-free way to move out of state!
• Zero high-pressure sales pitches
• Compare the costs and benefits of each company at your leisure to ensure you make the best decision for your move

Additional costs, limits, and restrictions

• On average, movers cost more than other DIY options, but not always!
• Costs are higher when school is out. (weekends/holidays/summer)
• Check with each company to see if they move specialty items, such as:
  • baby and grand pianos
  • large gun safes (or any other large safe)
  • pool tables
  • hot tubs
  • house plants
  • anything else that is extremely heavy or bulky

Don’t miss a deal that is too good to pass up because you didn’t take the time to check! 

If the difference in price is only a hundred dollars between hiring movers or doing everything yourself, then what’s really the cheapest way to move to you?

The extra time, stress, and labor that other DIY moving options require are no joke.

Click here to check the cost of out-of-state movers now!

Now you know your out-of-state moving options!

I’ve covered 7 cheap ways to move out of state for every situation you may be facing

Take some time to think it over, and choose the option that best fits your needs and your budget.

Good luck with your upcoming move!

If you have any questions, please leave them below in the comments section and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.

Cheers!

Remember to get your free out-of-state moving quotes here to potentially save hundreds, or even thousands on your move!