Cheap way to move out of state: 5 Smart Tips!
Your Guide to an Affordable Interstate Move from Illinois
A cheap way to move out of state doesn’t have to mean sacrificing quality. Out-of-state moves typically cost $2,700-$7,000, but the right strategies can significantly reduce these expenses.
Quick Answer: Top 5 Cheapest Ways to Move Out of State:
- Rent a moving truck yourself – $700-$2,000 (best for large moves)
- Use portable storage containers – $900-$4,500 (flexible timing)
- Sell most belongings and start fresh – Under $1,000 (minimal possessions)
- Ship via freight carriers – $1,021-$1,708 (small moves)
- Move during off-peak season – Save 10-25% (October to April)
Moving from Illinois to states like Florida or Georgia is common, with about eight million Americans relocating to new states annually. The good news? Moving during off-peak seasons like winter can save you significant money, and being flexible with your dates often means lower rates.
Whether leaving Chicago for warmer weather or Melrose Park for a new job, smart planning is key. Understanding your options and choosing the method that fits your budget and timeline makes all the difference.
As Mina Georgalas, owner and president of Bernard Movers, I’ve helped countless families find the most cheap way to move out of state during my 30 years in the industry. From our Chicago base, we’ve assisted with relocations to 45 states and seen how proper planning can cut moving costs in half.
Cheap way to move out of state vocab explained:
- moving out of state checklist
- planning to move out of state
- how much money to save before moving out of state
The Ultimate Guide to a Cheap Way to Move Out of State
Moving out of state from Illinois can feel overwhelming, especially on a budget. The good news is that with the right approach, an expensive ordeal can become an affordable adventure. While the average interstate move costs $2,700-$7,000, I’ve seen families cut those costs in half with smart planning.
After helping thousands of families relocate from Chicago and Melrose Park, I know the secret to a cheap way to move out of state isn’t just picking the lowest price. It’s about understanding your options and making strategic decisions for your situation.
Step 1: Plan and Prepare to Reduce Costs
The foundation of any affordable move starts months before you pack, as every decision impacts your final bill.
Turn Your Clutter into Cash
The cheapest way to move out of state is to move less. Companies charge by weight and volume, so every item you eliminate saves money. Be ruthless when decluttering—that dusty exercise bike or those unread books are costing you money to move.
Selling your unwanted items reduces your moving weight while putting cash in your pocket. Use Facebook Marketplace or Nextdoor to connect with local buyers. I’ve seen clients make enough from selling furniture to cover their truck rental. Donating items you can’t sell also lightens your load and can provide tax deductions.
Hunt Down Free Packing Supplies
New moving boxes can cost $200-$400. Instead, get free boxes from grocery stores during morning restocks or sturdy ones from liquor stores. Use your own towels, blankets, and clothes as free cushioning for fragile items. Wrapping dishes in sweaters and packing glasses in socks can save hundreds on bubble wrap.
Master the Art of Timing
Timing is your best friend for a cheap way to move out of state from Illinois. Moving during the off-peak season from October to April can save you 20% or more. Mid-week moves (Tuesday or Wednesday) cost less than weekends, and mid-month dates are cheaper than the beginning or end of the month. A mid-week move from Chicago in February instead of July puts you ahead of the game.
Step 2: Compare Your Most Affordable Moving Options
Understanding your moving options is like shopping for a car—you need to know what you’re comparing. Each method has its sweet spot, and the right choice depends on your situation.
What Drives Your Moving Costs
Let’s talk about what determines your final bill. Distance is obvious—moving from Illinois to Florida costs more than to Wisconsin. But the size and weight of your belongings often has the biggest impact, which is why decluttering is crucial.
The time of year can swing your costs dramatically. A move from Melrose Park in December might cost 30% less than the same move in June. Additional services like packing or furniture disassembly add up quickly, so be selective.
Here’s how the main moving methods stack up:
| Moving Method | Average Cost | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Self-Move (Rental Truck) | $700-$2,000 | Large moves, tight budgets | Maximum control and potential savings | Physical demanding, hidden costs, long-distance driving |
| Portable Storage Solutions | $900-$4,500 | Flexible timing, temporary storage needs | No truck driving, flexible schedule | Still requires loading/unloading, space limits |
| Professional Moving Services | $2,700-$7,000 | Convenience, large homes, busy schedules | Hands-off experience, professional handling | Most expensive, less schedule control |
Step 3: Finding the Cheapest Way to Move Out of State: Self-Move vs. Hybrid Methods
When you’re serious about finding a cheap way to move out of state, you’re usually looking at options where you do some of the work. Let’s break down what each approach really costs, including hidden expenses.
The Classic DIY: Rental Truck Adventures
Renting a moving truck seems like the obvious cheap way to move out of state, but you must plan carefully. A $1,200 base rental is just the start. Fuel costs can be a shock; these trucks get about 10 MPG, so a Chicago-to-Florida move could cost $400-$600 in gas. Add tolls, insurance, and lodging for multi-day drives, and your ‘cheap’ move gets expensive. Also, don’t forget the physical demands of loading a truck, especially from a second-floor apartment.
The “You Pack, We Drive” Middle Ground
Portable storage containers solve the biggest problem with truck rentals: you don’t have to drive. A company drops off a container, you load it at your own pace, and they handle transportation. This typically costs more than a DIY truck rental—perhaps $2,800 for a studio apartment move versus $1,200 for the truck. But when you factor in fuel, lodging, and the value of not driving a 26-foot truck, the math often favors containers. The convenience is huge, as you might get weeks to load and unload.
Matching Method to Move Size
For studio apartments or small moves, your own car with a small trailer can be the cheapest option, costing $500 to $800. For larger homes, a rental truck becomes more attractive as the per-pound cost drops. A three-bedroom house might cost $6,400 to move yourself versus $4,900 for a container service, but that assumes you’re comfortable driving 1,000+ miles and handling all loading.
Step 4: How to Find a Cheap Way to Move Out of State with Professional Help
Sometimes the cheapest way to move out of state isn’t the lowest upfront price—it’s the option with the best value and peace of mind. Professional movers might seem expensive at $2,700 to $7,000, but they can be surprisingly smart when you factor in your time, energy, and risk of injury.
The Power of Multiple Quotes
Never accept the first moving quote. Get at least three to understand what you’re buying, not just to find the lowest price. One company might quote $4,000 including materials, while another quotes $3,500 but adds extra fees.
Use quotes as negotiation tools. If you prefer one company but another came in lower, ask for a price match.
Avoiding the Moving Scam Nightmare
A ‘cheap’ mover who damages items or holds them hostage isn’t cheap. Always verify your mover has proper federal licensing via the FMCSA database, a requirement for interstate moves from Illinois.
Read reviews carefully, looking for patterns rather than isolated complaints. Consistent complaints about hidden fees, damaged items, or missed delivery windows are red flags.
Open up Hidden Discounts
Always ask about available discounts. Military discounts are common and can save 10% or more. Senior discounts are often available, and some companies offer student rates.
If you’re flexible, ask about last-minute discounts when movers have gaps in their schedule. They might offer savings to fill a truck already heading your direction.
Let Your Employer Pay the Bill
The absolute cheapest way to move out of state is having someone else pay. If relocating for a job, ask about moving costs. Many companies have relocation packages they don’t advertise but offer to good candidates.
Negotiate during the job offer process when you have the most leverage. Even partial assistance can make professional movers very affordable.
Employer-paid moving assistance is typically taxable income, so factor that into your financial planning. But even with taxes, free money for moving is still free money.
Finalizing Your Budget-Friendly Move from Illinois
Moving out of state doesn’t have to drain your savings. After helping thousands of families relocate from Illinois for nearly three decades, I know the right approach turns an overwhelming expense into a manageable investment.
Whether leaving Chicago for a warmer climate or Des Plaines for a new career, finding the most cheap way to move out of state requires smart planning and knowing your options. The families who save the most are those who plan early and stay flexible.
The foundation of a budget-friendly move is ruthless decluttering. I can’t stress this enough: every item you don’t move saves you money. Moving that old exercise bike from your Melrose Park basement or books you haven’t opened in years costs more than replacing them.
Timing flexibility is your secret weapon for savings. Moving during Illinois winters might not sound appealing, but October-April rates can be 25% lower than in summer. Mid-week moves from Franklin Park or Wood Dale cost less than weekends, and avoiding the end-of-month rush saves money.
The best cheap way to move out of state depends on your situation. A DIY rental might be your most economical choice if you’re comfortable driving a large truck. For those who prefer not to drive a 26-foot truck through the mountains, portable containers offer a sweet spot between cost and convenience.
Professional movers aren’t automatically the most expensive option when you factor in hidden costs like fuel, lodging, and time off work. Getting multiple quotes and asking about discounts—military, senior, or off-peak—can make professional service surprisingly affordable.
At Bernard Movers, we believe your move should be about starting fresh, not starting broke. We’re transparent about our pricing and committed to finding solutions that fit your budget. We’re currently offering a special 20% additional discount on moves to Georgia and Florida booked for delivery by March 15, 2025 – perfect timing if you’re planning to escape Illinois winters for good.
Ready to turn your moving stress into moving success? Plan your out-of-state move with us and find how affordable your fresh start can be.