Four Quick Tips to Make Your Long-Distance Move SO Much Cheaper

Moving is expensive, right? For most, the assumption that doing business with any moving company means hidden fees, unexpected expenses and generally non-transparent pricing.

It doesn't have to be that way. When you work with professional long distance movers in Sacramento, there are a number of ways that you can ensure that your move will be as inexpensive, and predictable, as possible (beyond simply choosing the best movers, which we address in another article).

1. Know the Moving Fees Before Your Move

The moving company you choose should be up-front about the way that they price your move. During the quote, a representative will come to your home and make a detailed inventory of your household goods. This is your first chance to make sure you know how their pricing works.

For most long distance moves, the price is calculated based on weight. The company will normally have a standard calculation of how much various items weigh and they will quote you accordingly. Just ask.

Then, once the inventory has been completed, request a "binding estimate." This will ensure that the company is more conservative with its estimate. A binding estimate means that you are guaranteed not to pay more than what is quoted to you when your household goods arrive, and often you will pay less. Make sure that you are given the exact weight of your shipment. If the move comes in under budget, an honest moving company will only charge you what you actually owe.

2. Avoid Using Bubble Wrap

If you've not moved before, you might not know: bubble wrap is prohibitively expensive! Forget the cost of moving services...if you're packing your own belongings, cutting costs at every step is key.

Use old newspaper, recycled paper, magazines and more to pack your boxes. You can often go to stores who will give you their old, unsold newspapers to use as packing materials. Only use bubble wrap for the fragile, irreplaceable items in your home.

3. Don't Ever Buy Boxes

Once you start looking, you'll start to notice that boxes are everywhere. And we mean EVERYWHERE. Have you ever thought about what happens to all of those boxes in which bottles are shipped to your local corner store? What about food boxes, Amazon shipping boxes and so many more in your city?

There's almost no reason to ever buy boxes unless you just can't find a free box big enough to fit your sewing machine or flat screen TV. Just go to your local stores and ask if they have any boxes. They'll almost always be happy to unload them onto you for free.

4. Downsize For Your Move

Don't haul things to your new home that you plan on donating when you arrive. Moving is a perfect opportunity to reduce your unwanted goods including clothing that doesn't fit as well as scratched pots & pans.

Items that are still in good conditions are a great opportunity to sell at a yard sale, and the rest can be donated to charities in your city such as the Salvation Army.

We are Brian Larson and Mark Larson. Mother Lode Van & Storage is a leader among moving and storage companies and is family-owned and operated with our offices in downtown Sacramento.