If you’re shipping one or two boxes under 70 lbs., USPS or parcel shipping is often the most convenient and cost-effective option. For larger items or even an entire household, using a full-service moving company or out of state movers is the easiest and most reliable choice. While this option is more expensive, it significantly reduces stress and ensures your belongings are handled professionally.
Are you planning a move to another state or need to ship some of your items across state lines? Out of state movers specialize in making these transitions smooth and hassle-free. Keep in mind that shipping your belongings, much like moving, requires ample time and careful planning.
If you’re unsure about the best and most affordable way to transport your household items to a new state, we’ve got you covered.
It’s important to note that the further your items need to travel, the higher the shipping costs. To ensure the process is cost-effective, consider exploring cheaper shipping options. Regardless of the volume or weight of your belongings, there are always ways to save money while ensuring everything arrives safely.
How to Ship Your Goods Out of State
1. Take the Bus
If your belongings are minimal, taking the bus is one of the most affordable ways to move out of state. It’s ideal for those without large boxes or heavy furniture, as long as the total shipment doesn’t exceed 250 lbs. Here are some things to keep in mind when using this option:
- It’s the cheapest method for moving to another state if you don’t have furniture.
- You can carry about 250 lbs of items.
- Once on board, you can relax and enjoy the ride.
- This option isn’t suitable for shipments exceeding 250 lbs.
- It’s not reliable for transporting furniture or bulky items.
- Pets are not allowed.
- You cannot move vehicles via this method. If needed, hire a car shipping company for your vehicle.
- Boxes can get jostled around, so pack them carefully.
- You’ll need to transport your belongings to and from the bus station.
- Be prepared for multiple stops, long travel times, and the need for food and overnight accommodations.
2. Get a Pick-up Truck Rental
Renting a pick-up truck is another budget-friendly way to handle small shipments. It works well for those planning a one-day move to another state. If you can fit your household items into the truck bed and make the trip in a single day, this option is worth considering.
Things to Keep in Mind When Moving with a Pick-Up Truck
- Cost-Effective for Short Moves: Cheaper than a moving truck rental for a day.
- Suitable for Small Shipments: Ideal for transporting a limited number of items.
- More Comfortable Travel: Allows more passengers or pets in the cab compared to a moving truck.
- Day-Limited Use: Costs can add up if the move takes more than one day.
- No Insurance on Belongings: Your items are not covered, so extra caution is necessary.
- Secure Your Items: Use straps, ropes, or stretch cords to tie everything down.
- Weather Exposure: Rain, sun, or wind could damage uncovered belongings.
- Manual Loading: No ramp means you’ll need to lift heavy items into the truck bed.
3. Get the Rental Moving Truck
Renting a moving truck and handling the entire move yourself is the most budget-friendly way to relocate with furniture. However, it is also the most stressful, physically demanding, and risky method.
If you’re moving more furniture and boxes than a pick-up truck or smaller trailer can accommodate and you’re on a tight budget, this could be your best option. Keep in mind, though, that:
- Renting a moving truck is the cheapest way to move with furniture.
- If you choose the right truck with a tow package, you can transport your vehicle behind it.
- Your belongings will arrive at the new home along with you.
- You’ll be responsible for gas costs, which can add up quickly.
- While insurance is optional, it’s highly recommended.
- You’ll be financially liable for any damages not covered by insurance.
- Accidents during lifting, driving, and unloading are common risks.
- Each truck typically offers only two or two and a half seats.
- Trucks lack rear-view mirrors, making backing up a cautious process.
- Long-distance moves in a rental truck can be uncomfortable and unenjoyable.
- Be cautious, as these trucks are susceptible to being blown around by strong winds.
- Most rental trucks are speed-limited to 65 mph.
- Poorly packed items may slide and shift during transit, causing furniture damage.
- Driving with subpar speakers and basic AM/FM radio can make the trip less enjoyable.
- Maneuvering through crowded cities and finding parking can be challenging.
4. Moving Containers
Moving containers are an affordable option for those willing to do the heavy lifting but not interested in driving. PODs (Portable On-Demand Storage) are popular because they strike a balance between full-service movers and moving truck rentals.
While they can be more expensive than renting a moving truck, they save you the stress of driving. You’ll handle tasks like packing, lifting, and loading unless you hire labor-only movers.
Things to Know About Moving with a Container:
- A moving container company delivers a portable unit to your address.
- You are responsible for loading the container with your belongings.
- Once packed, the company picks up the container and transports it to your destination.
- At your new location, they drop off the container for you to unload.
- After unloading, the company returns to retrieve the empty container.
- You won’t have to drive a large moving truck yourself.
- This method is generally cheaper than full-service movers.
- You and your household (including pets) can travel in your personal vehicle.
- Sharing a container with others can sometimes reduce costs.
- Availability may be limited in some areas, potentially increasing costs.
- Apartment complexes and metro areas may have drop-off restrictions—check these in advance.
- You’ll be responsible for all packing, lifting, and loading if you’re aiming to save money by not hiring movers.
- Costs are higher during weekends, holidays, and the summer.
5. Hire Affordable Movers
One of the easiest ways to save money during your move is by finding an affordable moving company. While you might think hiring movers isn’t within your budget, let me explain why this could be the best option for you.
After considering your options, you’ve realized that the effort of packing and securing your belongings for transport is more than you can handle alone. If this sounds like your situation, hiring a long-distance moving company is your best solution.
Professional movers will efficiently pack and transport your belongings to your new home or storage facility. Additionally, they can assist in transporting your vehicle if you don’t plan to drive it yourself.
