Absolutely nothing can be more stressful than moving from one home to another. A high rate of emotions are involved when it comes to moving, which starts from the reality of the sale of a home filled with fond memories to the packing of items that held a special place inside. As tempting as it may be to hire a professional mover, moving can be a most expensive venture and one that truly is not as necessary as it may seem. Moving interstate can cost anywhere from $3,500 to $4,500 with in-state moves costing almost the same, between $2,500 to $3,500. There are choices, and it’s imperative to choose which moving option is best for you and your family. If moving in-state, going it alone is the least expensive alternative with up front charges such as the price of the truck, fuel charges, and packing materials. Full-service movers charge by the hour, whether moving in state or out of state. In addition full-service movers charge weight and mileage when traveling across different states.
If it’s necessary to hire a professional mover, do your homework. Get at least three different quotes from separate moving companies, and research the companies that you choose making sure they have an excellent reputation, and provide you, the client a written estimate which is gold.
When packing to move, be sure to declutter and discard items that have not been used in more than two years. It is wise to take those items to a donation center, or to sell or recycle the items if possible. Items that you choose to bring with you to your new home, in order to save money pack them in suitcases, laundry baskets, plastic containers, and drawers. Items that are breakable should be wrapped in pillow cases, towels and sheets to protect them from possible breakage or damage. Be sure to get the proper supplies in the event that the listed items are not available or you run out. Bubble wrap, boxes, packing tape, plastic sheets, and felt tip pens are a must when moving items yourself.
If moving out of state, ask the movers if it is possible to consolidate, meaning if you can move your belongings with other people’s belongings that are moving in the direction that you are going. Most homeowners can’t fill an entire moving van so your belongings will be welcome and it’s possible that the cost will be slightly less if sharing the expense of a moving van.
A wise thing to do is to make sure your belongings are insured prior to the move. Review your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if your policy provides insurance coverage while your personal items are in transit. Be sure that you are covered for full-replacement value insurance which reimburses the policy holder the cost of what it would be to replace the item if broken and needs to be replaced. Keep in mind that full-replacement cost is only applicable if one hires a professional moving company as opposed to packing personal items themselves.
In short, yes moving is one of the most aggravating and stressful moments in one’s life. The real key to a successful and stress-free move is to be organized, know your options, and to view moving as a project and one that is a temporary situation that will take you from one stage of your life to the next.
Keith Munsell 
