Moving Cross Country Costs

Now that you have finally landed that dream job across the map, it might be a good time to think about the cost of moving cross country. The key to a successful move is simple to define, yet it is a rare occasion that its' execution is pulled of without a hitch. Organization is the answer to ensuring the survival of your goods throughout a 3,000 mile move.

The unfortunate truth concerning cross country moving expenses is that it is not cheap. The easiest way to ease this burden is to start saving your money into a fund that is specially set aside for moving and associated expenses. Sometimes, if the economy is in good standing where you will be moving to, the hiring company will offer you a moving allowance as a hiring bonus. Make sure that you have researched every possible way to make your move as stress free as possible.

Plan ahead! If you don't already have one, purchase an nationwide atlas, and research the possible routes to get you to your destination. Depending on how many drivers you may have to drive the distance, how many kids you have to stop for bathroom breaks, and other allowances, like pets for instance, figure out a reasonable distance that you will be able to travel each day, and mark it on your map. The key to figuring out the cost of this portion is to select the location of your stop each day, and call ahead to find the best prices of hotels in the area.

Once you have figured out the cost of your lodging along the way, try and calculate the fuel costs. Figure out what your vehicle's mileage is on the highway, and do some math to get an estimate on how many times you will need to fill up with gas along the way. Remember that this is only an estimate and give yourself some leeway each way for unforeseen circumstances. Also bring to consideration that fuel ups should get cheaper as you move east, and more expensive as you move west, due to the cost of shipping fuel to those stations.

The cost of moving cross country is mostly dependant on the way you decide to move your personal property. Call around and find a reputable moving company for a free cross country moving quote. Compare the prices of the highest rated companies, and remember that you are dealing with your property, so the cheapest company is not always the best value! Normal rates for this full service range from $4,000-7,000, with vehicle transportation rates from $900-1,600. Go online and research the feedback of the companies you are considering and make your decision. This is about your peace of mind, so choose the one that you feel will best move your property the way you want!

Set aside the few belongings you intend to take with you on the move, and remember to stick to your plan. Efficient packing and preparing is the key to keeping down the cost of moving cross country. Another expense you may want to consider is a decent camera, because there are some amazing sights you are going to see during your trek across the nation! Plan well, drive safe, and good luck!