Why Finding the Most Affordable Way to Move Long Distance Matters
Finding the most affordable way to move long distance combines smart planning with the right moving method. Costs for a cross-country move, like from Chicago to Florida, can vary dramatically based on your approach.
Quick Answer: Most Affordable Long-Distance Moving Options
- DIY Truck Rental: $1,200-$2,000 (cheapest but most effort)
- Moving Containers: $2,000-$4,000 (balanced cost and convenience)
- Hybrid Services: $2,500-$3,500 (you pack, professionals transport)
- Full-Service Movers: $4,000-$9,000 (most convenient but priciest)
The average cross-country move costs around $4,600, but you can cut this significantly. Strategies like decluttering and moving during off-peak months (November-April) lead to major savings.
A long-distance move doesn’t have to drain your savings. The key is understanding your options and deciding what matters most: saving money or reducing stress during your transition from Illinois.
I’m Mina Georgalas, president of Bernard Movers. With nearly 30 years in the industry, I’ve helped thousands of families find the most affordable way to move long distance. Our experience serving Chicago and 45 states has taught us which strategies deliver the best value.
Glossary for most affordable way to move long distance:
Comparing Your Options for the Most Affordable Way to Move Long Distance
When planning a long-distance move, you have three main options. Each offers a different balance of cost, convenience, and effort. Let’s review them to find the best fit for your budget and needs.
The Full DIY: Is Renting a Truck Your Cheapest Bet?
For the absolute lowest price, a DIY truck rental is the go-to option. You handle everything: packing, loading, driving, and unloading.
A DIY truck rental for a cross-country move typically costs $1,200 to $2,000. The low daily rate is appealing, but hidden costs add up.
The main benefit is total control over your timeline and belongings. With help from friends and family, it can be the most affordable way to move long distance.
However, the reality includes significant hidden costs. Trucks get poor gas mileage (4-10 MPG), making fuel a major expense on long hauls. You’re also responsible for all the physically demanding work, from heavy lifting to packing fragile items.
Additional costs include moving truck insurance, packing supplies, and potential fees for exceeding mileage limits.
The biggest challenge is often driving a large, unfamiliar truck across hundreds of miles, a stressful task for inexperienced drivers.
Delays can also be costly. If your new home isn’t ready, you may need to pay for storage and a second truck rental, erasing your initial savings.
The Hybrid Approach: Combining Self-Packing with Professional Transportation
The hybrid approach offers a balance: you pack and load, but professionals handle the long-distance driving. This typically involves using moving containers or freight trailers that are delivered to your home and picked up once loaded.
This service costs roughly $2,500 to $3,500, positioning it as a mid-range option between a full DIY move and hiring full-service movers.
A major benefit is flexibility. You can pack at your own pace over several days. Once loaded, professional drivers take over, saving you the stress of a long-distance drive in a large vehicle.
Many container services also offer built-in storage. If your new home isn’t ready, the container can be stored securely, which simplifies timing.
You are still responsible for the physical labor of packing and loading. However, you avoid the stress and exhaustion of driving a large truck cross-country.
For those with a moderate amount of belongings, this hybrid method is often the best value, saving money without the full stress of a DIY move.
The Hands-Off Option: When Are Professional Movers Worth It?
Sometimes, the best value isn’t the lowest price. Full-service movers handle everything from start to finish, providing priceless peace of mind for many families.
This option is the most expensive, ranging from $4,000 to $9,000. While the upfront cost is high, it includes comprehensive service.
Professional movers bring expertise that prevents costly mistakes. They know how to properly pack fragile items, disassemble furniture, and load the truck to prevent damage. The service covers everything: packing, loading, transport, unloading, and reassembly.
Another major benefit is protection. Professional movers are insured and offer coverage for your belongings, which can save you money by preventing damage or loss, especially with valuable items.
Full-service moving also saves you a significant amount of time. While you focus on work or family, the movers handle all logistics, which is a lifesaver for busy households.
This option is ideal for large households or moves involving valuable items. For popular routes like Illinois to Florida, an experienced team can manage the journey efficiently.
At Bernard Movers, we’re currently offering a special 20% additional discount on moves to Georgia and Florida booked for delivery by March 15, 2025. This makes professional service more accessible for those popular routes from Illinois.
Smart Strategies to Lower Your Long-Distance Moving Costs
Choosing your moving method is the first step, but several other strategies can dramatically reduce your expenses and make your relocation from Illinois as affordable as possible.
How to Find the Most Affordable Way to Move Long Distance by Decluttering
After nearly three decades in the moving business, I’ve learned the best secret to an affordable move: move less stuff. It starts before you pack a single box.
It sounds simple, but most people accumulate more than they realize. Every item adds weight and volume to your shipment, which directly increases your cost, regardless of the moving method.
Before packing, go through your home and ask: Have I used this in the last year? and Would it be cheaper to replace than to move? Often, large items like an old couch aren’t worth the moving cost.
Selling unwanted items on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or through a garage sale can help offset moving costs. Furniture, electronics, and household goods are often in demand.
For items that don’t sell, consider donating to organizations like Goodwill. You’ll help your community, lighten your load, and may even get a tax deduction.
The equation is simple: less stuff means a smaller truck, fewer containers, or less time for movers, all of which saves you money.
Timing is Everything: The Cheapest Times to Move from Illinois
Like booking a vacation, timing your move can save you significant money. The moving industry has peak and off-peak seasons that you can use to your advantage.
The cheapest time to move is during the off-peak season, from October through April. With lower demand, moving companies often offer better prices and more flexible scheduling.
The peak season, from late spring to early fall, is the most expensive time to move because of high demand. If you can be flexible, moving in the winter or early spring offers substantial savings.
Moving mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) is almost always cheaper than on a weekend. Since most people prefer to move on weekends, you’ll find lower rates during the week.
Similarly, aim for a mid-month move. The beginning and end of the month are peak times due to leases starting and ending, so moving between the 10th and 20th can secure better rates.
Booking your move one to three months in advance, especially during off-peak times, helps lock in savings and gives you more control over your schedule.
Uncovering Savings and Finalizing Your Move
Beyond choosing your moving method and timing, a few final strategies can add up to significant savings on your Illinois relocation.
Save on packing supplies, which can cost $100-$350. Instead of buying new boxes, ask local grocery stores, liquor stores, or other businesses for their used ones. They often have sturdy boxes they are happy to give away.
Use items you’re already moving as packing material. Towels, blankets, and clothing make excellent padding for fragile items, saving you money on bubble wrap and packing paper.
If you’re moving yourself but need help with heavy lifting, consider hiring labor-only services for loading and unloading. At $25-$50 per hour, it’s far cheaper than full-service movers and saves your back.
Always ask about potential discounts. Many moving companies offer special rates for military members, seniors, or students, as well as seasonal promotions.
When comparing quotes, watch for hidden fees for things like stairs, long carries, or special handling. A reputable mover will provide transparent pricing.
At Bernard Movers, we provide affordable, high-quality long-distance moving services. Our team offers honest quotes and expert guidance for your move from Illinois.
Right now, we’re offering a 20% additional discount on moves to Georgia and Florida booked for delivery by March 15, 2025. It’s our way of making your dream move even more budget-friendly.
Ready to plan your move? Learn more about our affordable out-of-state moving services and get a personalized quote. We’ll help you find the most affordable way to move long distance safely.