2023 Study: Majority of Renters Priced Out of Homeownership in 78% of All US Metros

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Key Findings

  • 63% of renters across the biggest U.S. metropolitan areas are priced out of home ownership (up from 61% last year)
  • The majority of renters can’t afford to own a home where they live in 205 out of 260 metros (78%)
  • At least 90% of renters are priced out of home ownership in 16 American metro areas, nine of which are in California
  • In two metropolitan areas, Prescott, AZ and San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles, CA, less than 1% of renters would be able to afford buying and owning a median-priced home
  • Kalamazoo-Portage, MI, Jackson, MI, and Johnstown, PA are the only three metros where more than 80% of renters could afford to own a home

In 2022, a study by Porch, a nationwide home-service company, found 61% of renters in the U.S. were priced out of homeownership, meaning they were not able to afford to buy and own a home in the same city where they rented. 

In 2023, applying that study’s same methodology to the most recent home-owner data resulted in an estimate of 63%. In other words, today, nearly two-thirds of renters can’t afford to buy a home in the metro where they live.

To gain a better understanding of this huge number, we examined housing affordability by comparing renter incomes to home prices using the most recently available data for 260 metropolitan areas in the United States.


Home Prices Have Dropped, Why Aren’t Homes More Affordable?

home ownership study porch hireahelperEven though home prices have been falling for the better part of last year and then continued their decline in 2023, housing affordability hasn’t improved. In fact, things have gotten worse for prospective homeowners over the last year. 

At the end of last year, the National Association of Realtors’ Housing Affordability Index reached its lowest point since 1965. It hasn’t been this hard for a family with an average income to qualify for a mortgage loan on an average-priced home in over six decades.

Why hasn’t a drop in home prices led to greater affordability? 

For starters, mortgage interest rates are at 6.65% according to Freddie Mac — the highest they’ve been since the Great Recession. This means potential mortgage repayments for buyers would be a lot higher than they would have been even just a few years ago.

 

“It hasn’t been this hard for a family with an average income to qualify for a mortgage loan on an average-priced home in over six decades.”

 

Secondly, there aren’t enough affordable starter homes. In part, that’s because there are simply not enough homes for sale in general after a pandemic buying frenzy. On top of that, there is simply put, a lack of cheap new homes. Roughly 63% of all U.S. homes were selling for over $400,000 by the end of 2022.

Finally, there’s the pervasive issue of inflation and the increasing cost of goods, services, and rent, leaving less money in Americans’ pockets. Despite dropping to 6.5% in recent months, it’s still way higher than the pre-pandemic 1-2% rate.

Now that we know more about why housing is less and less affordable, let’s get into where all this leaves American renters wanting to buy a home in 2023.

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Further Out of Reach: The Majority of Renters Can’t Afford To Own a Home in 205 out of 260 Metros

To estimate the percent of renters priced out, we assumed a scenario where a first-time buyer put down 6% of the home value, obtained a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage with a 6.65% interest rate (an average rate), and aimed to keep mortgage repayments to a maximum of 30% of the household income, as per the famous Housing and Urban Development guideline.

 

“…in two major U.S. metropolitan areas, the share of renters priced out of home ownership is a staggering 99%!”

 

With current income levels and home prices, this scenario is completely unattainable for the majority of renters in 205 out of 260 metropolitan areas in the United States. That’s in nearly eight out of the ten (78%) most populated areas in America where renters have no realistic chance at home ownership.

 

In the Porch study from 2022, there were 184 metros where home ownership was unaffordable for 50% or more renters living in them. 

This overall increase seems to suggest the affordability crisis isn’t just deepening in areas already struggling with affordable homes, but is actually expanding to more metropolitan areas across the country.

Mission Impossible: In Two Metros, Home Ownership Is Unachievable for 99% of Renters   

Last year’s study uncovered 13 major U.S. metro areas where at least 90% of renters wouldn’t have been able to afford home ownership based on their income. This year, there are 17 of them!

What’s different about this year’s findings, however, is that in two major U.S. metropolitan areas, the share of renters priced out of home ownership is a staggering 99%!

Those areas are San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles, CA and Prescott, AZ, where the home prices are prohibitively high to be affordable for the absolute majority of people who rent in these areas. Homes in San Luis Obispo and the area being unaffordable is nothing new, but affordability dropping in Arizona and Prescott, AZ specifically is something that’s started happening recently, according to local reports.

 

Of the 17 places in the U.S. where the income of 90% of renters would prevent them from being able to afford a home, nine are in California with cities like Los Angeles (94.3%), Salinas, CA (92.9%) and San Diego (92.6%) all with an appearance on the list.

Hawaii and Colorado each have two metros on this list, but, rather surprisingly, so does Charleston-North Charleston, SC, where some 91.6% of renters are priced out of home ownership. Turns out, housing has been too expensive in the area for a while, but the local government does seem to be stepping in and building more affordable homes, according to reports.

The Modest Midwest: Two Michigan Metros Among Three Most Affordable Places for Renters

Like last year, Johnstown, PA leads the pack in terms of affordability of local housing for those on typical renter incomes. Nearly 90% of people who rent in the area earn enough to cope with the costs of home ownership if they were to buy a home in the area.

The only two other metropolitan areas where owning a home without repayments crosses the affordability threshold of 30% of the household income are in Michigan. Those places are Jackson, MI, (11.9%) and Kalamazoo-Portage, MI (13.3%).

Looking at the 10 most affordable areas for renters looking to jump onto a housing ladder without it breaking the bank, five are either in Michigan or Illinois, while a total of three exist in Pennsylvania.

See All the Data for Yourself

To see how affordable homeownership is for renters in your city or metro, check the table below. 


Methodology, Data Sources, Calculations and Assumptions Made

Income levels of renter households and their % of all households in each metropolitan area were taken from the 2022 release of the Annual Social Economic Supplement to the Current Population Survey, as available via Integrated Public Use Microdata Series (IPUMS). Home prices were taken from Zillow.
% of renters “priced out” was calculated as the percentage of renters in each metropolitan area whose income wouldn’t be sufficient to keep potential mortgage repayments to 30% of gross monthly income (Source: United States Department of Housing and Urban Development). 
Mortgage repayments were estimated using the following assumptions:

Illustrations by Daniel Fishel

My Top 10 Moving Tips for Professional Movers

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As movers, we like to move fast and efficiently. But we also like doing everything right.

But there’s truth to the old adage “Work smarter, not harder.” With that phrase in mind, take advantage of these smart moving tricks and hacks I picked up over the years to help you and your crew from working any harder than you need to … but while still doing that 5-star service you’re known for.


1. Set up as SOON as you step off the truck

What’s the first thing we do when we show up for a move? Ring the customer’s doorbell, say hello, and do a walk-through of the place.

Use this opportunity to have a crew member bring stuff you’ll need into the house. As your customer shows you around,

  • Leave a roll of shrink wrap in the living room for the O/S
  • Bring your tools inside/upstairs (along with a few plastic bags!) so you can get right to disassembling the beds
  • Bring in some markers and tape (if there’s any packing to be done) 

Note: Even if you are moving someone into their brand-new home, you’ll still want to bring in tools; they always come in handy. (At minimum, use your free hands to bring in the first few boxes while you’re saying good morning.)

2. Make practical use of the walk-through

Once you’ve seen the upstairs (or the farthest parts of the apartment), grab a box or two and carry them with you back downstairs and/or toward the door. This will keep the move flowing and snappy.

If you need to inventory the customer’s goods first, leave those boxes inside, for now. But if it’s a same-day local move, then carry the beginnings of their stuff out to the garage or driveway (or wherever you’ll be staging things), if not right out onto the truck.

Note: The very beginning is not the time to start hauling heavy furniture down the steps. Leave that sort of stuff for once you’ve got the necessary paperwork signed and the necessary furniture pads prepared.

3. Tape nuts and bolts to the furniture it comes from

Me? I love it when putting a bed frame or a dining room table together, the nuts and bolts are all right there for me, taped in place and waiting for me.

Some people prefer using a parts box, but honestly? Just tape those bits of hardware securely to the bed frame or the underside of the tabletop and you’re good to go.

DON’T tape the bolts THEMSELVES directly to the surface of any metal or wood (please, no!); put all those screws and wing-nuts and everything else in a plastic bag, tape a piece of packing paper around the bed frame or one of the table legs, wrap up that plastic bag of bolts in more paper to prevent any scratches, then tape the protected bag to the bed frame, or the underside, or one leg of the table.

Note: If you are worried about leaving scratches or sticky tape residue on the customer’s bed frame or table leg (or whatever else), or if you just prefer not to tape plastic bags to things, there’s nothing wrong with using a parts box. Go with what works for you.

4. Both you AND the customer should take pictures of everything before you move it!

pictures moving

Before unhooking electronics, it may prove supremely helpful down the road to have pictures of all the cords and wires so we – or the unloaders, or the customer – can see how to hook everything back up again.

The same goes for anything else we will be disassembling: exercise equipment, partition furniture, and even something as simple as a dresser mirror. Of course, take pictures of any pre-existing damage you find, whether it be on an item or somewhere in the customer’s home (e.g., a scratch on the floor or a nick in the wall.)

Note: I recommend using a filesharing website like Dropbox or wetransfer for photos. Both you and the customer can send their pictures to one online folder created specifically for that move.

5. It’s almost always better to empty heavy furniture before moving it

moving furniture

Sure, it might make sense to transport a dresser as is, without emptying it and packing all those clothes in boxes. But depending on how bulky and heavy that dresser is, or how treacherous a staircase might be, to first take out all the drawers and carry them downstairs (and maybe all the way out to the truck). A dresser without its drawers (and all the clothing inside) weighs a lot less than it does when full, making it easier to maneuver without any danger of a drawer sliding out and crashing into the wall or onto the floor.

6. Try shoulder straps 

shoulder straps furniture movers
photo credit: northerntool.com

Shoulder straps are for when we are faced with a heavy piece of furniture and a narrow staircase. If you have furniture straps, great, If not, you can use ratchet straps (as long as you remove the part with the ratchet). Either way, using straps can make it a lot easier to control a heavy piece as you ease it down those stairs. Slide it down if it has a sturdy, flat surface (pad it up first!). Otherwise, lift it and go down one step at a time.

7. Pad-up the furniture at the truck, not inside

Sure, if you are going to slide a piece of furniture down a set of stairs you’ll absolutely want to pad it first, and pad it very well.

But for furniture you are simply going to carry out to the truck, wait until later to pad it up. Why? No matter how securely you tape your furniture pads in place, they are bound to slip once you try to carry what they are wrapped around. Your mileage may vary, but I always found it much easier to handle furniture that was not padded, and much more importantly, much faster not to have to do the same thing twice.

8. Save your back with a “set box”

movers van set box

A set box is a box for putting other boxes on top of, and it saves everyone a lot of unnecessary bending and lifting.

Whether moving your customer in or out, it’s a great idea to have a few solid boxes left at key loading or unloading places; when you have one crewmember or two hauling boxes out of the house to the staging area and another crewmember or two hauling them onto the truck, a set box on either end will speed you up!

9. Tape cardboard OVER a furniture pad that’s covering glass

furniture pad cardboard

It’s common — and smart — to place a piece of cardboard over the front of a china hutch or a curio, or any piece of furniture with glass that can not be removed and wrapped. Usually, this is done before wrapping the piece up in furniture pads. But for an extra layer of protection — and to give everyone a clear warning that there is glass under that pad — tape another piece of cardboard over the glass ON TOP OF the furniture pad.

10. Bring towels

mover with a towel

In hot weather, we sweat. In bad weather, things get wet. In any case, it’s a great idea to have a few towels on hand.

Have CLEAN towels for your crew to wipe the sweat off their hands and arms (and faces and legs too). Have some big old towels your crew can use to wipe their feet and keep the truck ramps as well as the inside of the truck as dry and safe as possible.


And one final tip: Please, don’t run. Yes, we are movers. We love to move. But one missed step, one uneven edge, one loose rock and your extra hustle could lead to a whole lot of hurt, not to mention a slowdown for the rest of the job and maybe beyond.

“Work smarter, not harder.” To that, I’d add, “Work safely.”

Moving Vs. Remodeling Your Home

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Whether your tastes have changed or your family is growing, you might find that your current home is no longer meeting your needs. That presents an important decision to make: Should you renovate your current place or move somewhere else?

In light of today’s uncertain real estate market, it’s a choice you should weigh carefully. Here’s what to consider.

The Case for Moving

Of course, one of the biggest things to think about when deciding between moving or remodeling is the cost. The decision you make today can seriously impact your finances for years to come.

The Costs of Moving to a Larger House

a couple looks over a blueprint, notebook, and calculator on a table. Boxes are stacked in the room behind them.

These are the most typical home moving costs.

Real Estate Comission

If you choose to use a real estate agent to sell your current home, you should plan to spend 5%-6% of the sale price in commissions. Usually, the buyer’s agent and the seller’s agent each receive a 2.5%–3% commission, which the seller pays.

New Mortgage Costs

There are also closing costs associated with getting a new mortgage. These typically run 3%-6% of the mortgage amount. Home appraisals, title insurance, and other administrative costs of buying a new home can tack on several thousand dollars more.

 

“As of the fourth quarter of 2022, the average home price of a home sold in the U.S. was $535,800.”

 

Home Repairs and Touch-ups

You may also have to spend some money getting your home ready for sale. For example, you might need to do some repainting and make a few repairs. Andnce you move into your new home, it might need some minor upgrades or new furnishings to fill up extra/larger rooms.

Movers and Relocation

Then there’s the cost of the move itself. Factors such as distance, number of rooms, and type of labor you hire will all impact the cost. According to HireAHelper data between January through May 2022, the average cost of a labor-only move was $418, based on the moves booked through HireAHelper and their partners. Of course, interstate and cross-country moves can cost considerably more.

Real Estate Market Considerations

a real estate "for sale" sign outside of a home with white walls and a tan roof

Home prices experienced a meteoric rise over the past couple of years. And although they’ve leveled off recently, prices are still at record highs.

As of the fourth quarter of 2022, the average home price of a home sold in the U.S. was $535,800. While that means you can probably sell your current house for a great price, it also means you’ll have to spend (or borrow) more for a new one.

 

“The average cost of home remodeling is $49,000, with most remodels costing somewhere between $18,000 and $80,000…”

 

Along with home prices, mortgage rates have also been on the rise. The Federal Reserve raised its rate several times over the past year to combat rampant inflation, which has impacted the cost of borrowing considerably. Strong consumer spending and increasing housing costs have also contributed to rising rates.

As of February 16, the average interest rate on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage sits at 6.32%, while the average rate for a 15-year fixed-rate mortgage is 5.51%. In other words, this is where you would do the math to compare how much you’d spend in additional interest over the life of your loan versus the cost of doing any renovations.

Consider the Impact a Move May Have on Your Lifestyle and Any Family Members

A family with a toddler plays with blocks in front of stacked moving boxes

Beyond the financial cost, it’s also important to consider the time and emotional cost of a move. This can be particularly challenging for kids in your family.

Children

Young children can experience a range of emotions while moving. However, it’s not uncommon for them to feel sad, anxious, or angry, as moving can bring about a sense of loss as they leave behind familiar people, places, and routines, especially if they are moving to a new city or state.

With that in mind, understand that young children may experience developmental regression during the moving process. For example, they may revert to behaviors such as bed-wetting or thumb-sucking as a way of coping with stress.

Again, every child is different, and yours may not react strongly to the idea of moving. In fact, they may even be excited by the idea (plus, there are things you can do to help kids with the transition). Only you will be able to evaluate your child’s stress management capabilities and decide whether moving is worth it.

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Teens and Young Adults

Teens or young adults in the family may also struggle with the transition, as moving might mean leaving behind close friends or romantic partners. It can take time for teenagers and young adults to establish new social relationships, and they may feel isolated or lonely during the transition.

Moving can disrupt their education, too, as they may need to transfer to a new school or college. This also means they may struggle to adjust to new academic expectations, curriculum, and teaching styles.

You Own Emotional Health

Don’t downplay your own feelings and stress levels. Moving is a lot of work, and a major time and financial commitment. You’ll need to think about whether you — and your partner, if you have one — have the mental bandwidth to deal with a move and everything that comes with it, including changing jobs, making new friends, and more.

Attachment to Your Own Home

And don’t underestimate how attached your family may be to your current house. It may be where siblings share fond memories of growing up together or spending time with a grandparent. Forcing family members to give up their beloved home could cause hurt feelings, so consider how moving might affect your family dynamics.

Consider the Life Logistics

a woman packs up her desk in preparation to leave her job

Moving also has an impact on your lifestyle in general. If you move, it’s important to think about how certain aspects of your life could change, for better or worse.

How Will It Impact Your Career?

Obviously, moving can significantly impact your career if you have to find a new job! The job market may be different in the new location, with different industries and job opportunities. If you are not moving for a new job or with your old job, it will take time to find a job that fits your skillset and experience.

Moving can also mean leaving behind professional connections, mentors, and colleagues. It might take some time to build a new network in the new location. Plus, salaries and wages can vary widely by location; you may need to adjust your expectations, or negotiate a new salary to match the cost of living in the new location.

How Much Do You Like Your Current Life Setup?

How do you like your current neighborhood and how would a new one compare? You’ll need to weigh factors such as,

  • Safety
  • Schools
  • Access to public transportation
  • Walkability
  • Entertainment
  • Cultural amenities

Does the area you live in still serve your needs? Does your potential new city offer the right vibe?

The cost of living in the neighborhoods you’re considering is also key. This includes factors such as housing costs, property taxes, and utilities. Consider whether the cost of living — either at home or somewhere else — is within your budget.

The Case for Remodeling

Remodeling may inherently be cheaper, but don’t forget that remodeling your home also takes time, money, mental fortitude, and sacrifice.

The Costs of Remodeling

a man and a woman look over a kitchen in preparation for remodeling it

Even though the worst of the pandemic economics are behind us, supply chain issues and labor shortages still plague many industries. And that could impact the cost of a remodel. (Building materials have been slightly increasing in price, for instance.)

So how much should you budget for remodeling in 2023? The average cost of home remodeling is $49,000, with most remodels costing somewhere between $18,000 and $80,000, according to Hunker.

How much do home projects cost by foot?

When broken down by the size of the project, smaller renovations tend to cost more per square foot. A whole-house remodel typically costs between $15 and $60 per square foot. A kitchen or bath remodel can run $100 to $250 per square foot, while putting an addition on your home is around $90 to $200 per square foot.

 

“Your family may need to adjust their schedules or make alternative living arrangements during the remodeling process.”

 

Budgeting

high angle shot of a man and woman on a couch looking over documents on a table such as blueprints and paint swatches along with calculator and a pen

it’s crucial to set up a realistic budget and stick to it. That includes a contingency plan for any unexpected (i.e., expensive) issues.

Start by determining the exact scope of your remodeling project. This could include changes to the layout, new fixtures, or updated materials. Once you have a clear picture of the work involved, you can start to estimate the costs.

Next, research the costs of materials, labor, and any permits or licenses you may need for the project. Get multiple quotes from contractors or suppliers to get an accurate estimate.

Set and stick to the budget once you have an estimate. Determine the maximum amount you can afford to spend, and set aside a portion of the budget for unexpected expenses. Also, decide which expenses are most important and allocate the budget accordingly. For example, you may want to put more money towards high-quality materials, while reducing costs on non-essential features.

Use a spreadsheet or budgeting software to ensure that you stay within your budget. Also, think about the hidden costs of renovating that could impact your budget. For instance, will you need to eat out more often while your kitchen is out of commission? If you work from home, will you have a designated, quiet workspace, or will you need to rent a coworking space?

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Creating a Living Timeline

Remodeling projects can vary in duration, depending on the scope of the work. More than likely, however, remodeling is going to disrupt your family’s schedule, especially if the project lasts for an extended period. Your family may need to adjust their schedules or make alternative living arrangements during the remodeling process.

To minimize the impact of remodeling on family schedules, it’s important to plan ahead and communicate with everyone. For instance, you might want to schedule work during summer vacation from school or after an important project at work is completed. If necessary, you might need to temporarily move into a family member or friend’s home, or even a hotel, to minimize the disruption.

Hiring the Best Professional Team

a man and a woman speak to a contractor wearing blue overalls about their home remodel

Next, you’ll need to hire the right team to get the work done promptly, correctly, and within budget. One option is to go through a trusted family member or friend. While this is a good way to get a referral, or even perhaps a discount, keep in mind that the relationship could be strained if there are any disagreements or problems.

Alternatively, you could hire a professional team with the help of a platform such as Angi, Houzz, or Porch. Keep in mind that your budget and timeline may impact who you can hire.

Getting Permits and Permissions

Finally, don’t forget to make sure you have all the right permits in place, which vary by city. Minor improvements to the interior, such as replacing countertops or installing hard flooring don’t need a permit, but major renovations such as building detached structures (like a garage), cutting holes for doors and windows, and making major plumbing or electrical changes likely will.

You can find out exactly which permits are needed and apply for them through your local municipal office. Be sure to keep your paperwork organized in case you need to show proof you were approved to do the work.

Making Your Final Decision

Choosing whether to remodel your home or move into a new one is a big decision that can impact your finances, mental health, and overall quality of life. Both options have their pros and cons — you’ll need to carefully weigh your priorities and discuss each option with all the members of your family. After all, everyone’s along for the ride.

Should You Use Salt or Sand on an Icy Driveway?

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Slipping and falling on an icy driveway is bad enough when you’re only holding your car keys. So imagine wiping out while carrying a box full of books or a dresser full of clothes.

As a mover, I’ve seen it. And it’s flippin’ scary.

Winter is one of the cheapest times to move, but with the snow and ice of the season comes the potential for serious injury to you or your movers. Being the forward-thinking person that you are, you might already be contemplating, “should I cover my front walk and driveway with salt or sand?”

To help you make the best choice, here is the rundown on each, and some more information on how to keep your pathways and driveways as slip-free as possible. 


First, Shovel the Area You’re Going To Be Walking On

As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. It’s easier to shovel snow than it is to get rid of ice, so it makes good sense to keep your front walk, your driveway, and the sidewalk in front of your house clear and clean.

In other words: Don’t wait until the night before or the morning of your move to start shoveling!

If you live where temperatures can remain below freezing for days on end (if not weeks—hello, Minnesota!), it becomes more important to keep shoveling, multiple times over multiple days if necessary, to keep all that snow from getting packed down and turned into ice.

But what if Mother Nature insists on coating the driveway with snow and ice in the hours leading up to your move? Then it’s time for a quicker cure.

Should I Use Sand or Salt?

To summarize the difference between salt or sand for snow and ice:

Sand simply covers up snow and ice. Salt melts snow and ice.

Which is better depends on how cold it is, and how much you care if it gets into the environment. In either case, the biggest priority is traction. So let’s compare.

The case for sand

Pros:

  • Less toxic
  • Comparatively cheaper
  • Works immediately

Cons:

  • Needs to be reapplied
  • Might not work in extremely cold temperatures
  • Can collect in drainage systems and make it into waterways

Sand is an easy, cheap, and quick solution to your icy problems. Dump out a few bags and spread it around, and you instantly have a safer place to walk. However, since sand provides traction, once it gets ground into the snow or ice it becomes less effective. Considering how many times you or your movers will be walking back and forth on it, you’ll likely have to put more down once or twice during the move. It can also freeze into hazardous clumps in really extreme temperatures. 

 

“Get an idea of how much square footage you’ll need to cover before you run out to grab that salt or sand. If a sales assistant isn’t there to help, you might find how much you need right on the bag.”

 

Keep in mind that there are several different varieties of sand, as well. There is stuff explicitly meant for icy roads and surfaces, which is the best. If you don’t have access to that, sandbox sand will also work well, and certainly better than mason’s sand. In general, the grittier the sand is, the better.

And be sure to clean up after yourself! Sweep up the sand yourself, incentivize your kids, or pay someone else to do the work, but don’t leave it around, otherwise too much will wash away into the drainage systems. Check out the advice at HowToDisposeOf for tips on what to do with that sand once you’re done with it. 

The case for salt

salt or sand

Pros:

  • Gets rid of the ice by melting it away, instead of just covering it up
  • Specifically designed for this process, so there’s a lot of availability and choice
  • No need to reapply it once it’s cleared the ice

Cons:

  • Takes some time to begin working, so you need to apply it hours to a full day in advance
  • Can damage property and lawns, or potentially be harmful to pets
  • Won’t work below certain temperatures

You likely already know that salt gets rid of ice and snow, but you might not be familiar with how it does this. Driveway salt (sometimes called “rock salt”) doesn’t melt ice like a flamethrower would. Instead, when mixed with water, it forms a liquid brine — a fancy name for salt water — which has a lower freezing point than pure water. This brine then lowers the freezing point of the water it comes in contact with, effectively melting it. Although only down to a certain degree; brine that is 20% salt will still freeze below 0˚F.

 

“If you live where temperatures can remain below freezing for days on end…it becomes even more important to keep shoveling, multiple times over multiple days if necessary, to keep all that snow from getting packed down and turned into ice.”

 

However, this melting process takes time. So don’t toss salt around an hour before your movers pull up to your house and expect all the ice to be gone.

In addition, salt can cause damage to your property. It can rust metal, and crack most driveway and pathway surfaces due to repeated freezing/thawing cycles breaking down the integrity of the material. And you should keep animals away from the stuff in general. Not only will driveway salt cause contact burns if it gets in between pets’ paws, but it contains trace amounts of cyanide, which may cause issues for local wildlife as well as your furry friends.

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Don’t like these choices? There are alternatives!

Alternatives to salt would more accurately be called “variations of salt” and have a spectrum of merits. While you can probably find any of these at a store, which one to pick is most dependent on exactly how cold it is where you are.

  • Calcium chloride (CaCl): At around minus 25˚F, it has a lower freezing point than rock salt. It also works more quickly because it gives off heat as it dissolves. However, calcium chloride is corrosive to metal and can leave a slimy residue. It also encourages algae growth which clogs waterways.
  • Magnesium chloride: Somewhat less corrosive than calcium chloride, it will begin to absorb moisture from the air at 32% humidity, speeding up the melting process.
  • Potassium chloride (KCl): Despite its use for executions by lethal injection, is safer for pets and plants than calcium chloride. But with a freezing point of around 12˚F, it is also less effective.
  • Nitrogen-based urea products: Like nitrogen-based fertilizers, this salt is ineffective under 20˚F and will eventually get into the water supply, lakes, and streams.
  • Calcium Magnesium Acetate (CMA): Can prevent ice down to around minus 27˚F and is much more environmentally friendly than the abovementioned salts — at a much higher price.

Are there any eco-friendly or pet-friendly alternatives?

salt or sand

With all the pros and cons of these salts and chemicals, you may be wondering if there’s an option out there that’s safe for your pets and the environment. 

The good news is that there are many pet-friendly alternatives to rock salt out there. Even better, these also tend to be the ones that are easier on the environment as well. However, if your concern runs really deep, your best bet is to look at the ingredients on any brand that claims to be pet or eco-friendly and research what effects it can have.

Grist has a list of a few alternatives to rock salt in an editorial. GreenMoxie also offers some advice and options. 

But what everyone seems to agree on — including us — is that there’s no better way to keep your driveway and your front walk clear of ice than with a little elbow grease. It’s much better to simply prevent the snowmelt from becoming thick ice in the first place, so grab that shovel and get to work as early and as often as necessary.  

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And a few more tips

  • To reiterate: salt and sand the day before your move, if you can. Clear away any chunks or other bits to help keep it all from refreezing overnight.
  • If you absolutely have to apply salt the morning of your move? The heat from all the foot traffic will help the melting process, but in the meantime, scattering some sand on top wouldn’t hurt.
  • Get an idea of how much square footage you’ll need to cover before you run out to grab that salt or sand. If a sales assistant isn’t there to help, you might find how much you need right on the bag.

Not only will your movers love you for taking the time and effort to make sure their path is clear and safe, but it will undoubtedly make the process much faster than if you hadn’t bothered to get rid of all the ice and snow.

The Stuff That’s Illegal To Bring Into California

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From stunning national parks and perfect sandy beaches to those big-screen Hollywood dreams and beyond, it’s no wonder close to 40 million people like to call California home. But The Golden State is also an economic powerhouse, with a GDP larger than all but a handful of the world’s countries, and a fair chunk of that GDP comes from agriculture. 

Protecting all the fun and farmland begins right at the California border, with officers at sixteen different checkpoint stations enforcing the rules and prohibitions that keep the Golden State running.

To help you cruise through without incident and get to your new home as smoothly and quickly as possible, we’re laying out all the major rules right here about what you can and can’t bring with you.


Pets, livestock, and other animals

animals

 

Here’s some good news: bringing common household pets into California is not a problem at all! Cat owners in particular have it easy: the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) doesn’t require any documentation for domestic felines. On the other hand, dogs require proof of rabies vaccination, but nothing else.

The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) offers an impressive list of animals that can not be imported into the state. Interestingly, there seem to be no restrictions on the American bison.

 

“One large category of prohibited items might surprise you, and that’s all citrus plants. California is particularly serious about barring all of it, including loose pieces of citrus fruit, from being brought into the state.”

 

The DFW also offers information on restricted species. If you aren’t sure where your iguana stands, check directly with the authorities in your specific region

And for all you farmers and ranchers out there, the California Department of Food and Agriculture has information on importing livestock and poultry.

Licensing your dog or cat in California once you’ve moved in is mandated and enforced locally. Check with your city or county for your specific required actions – preferably before you arrive.

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Alcohol, marijuana, and other cannabis products

As long as you are 21 or older you are permitted to bring alcoholic beverages into California provided it is for personal or household use. Transporting alcohol into the state for commercial or business purposes requires a license from the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC).

Persons 21 and older are also legally permitted to possess and use marijuana within the limits of state and (beware) local laws.

 

“[The] AG requires that you…do one of three things within sixty days of moving to California: register your firearm, sell it to a licensed dealer, or sell it to the police or sheriff’s department.”

 

But, there’s a caveat when it comes to transportation of it. Under current federal law, it is illegal to transport marijuana or any cannabis products (like edibles) across state lines. So as you peruse California’s laws regarding using and growing and keeping marijuana in your car, understand that this only applies once you are in-state

In short, feel free to bring your Budwiser along (and make sure you pack and move it correctly), but leave your bud behind.

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Open Container Laws

Article 2 Section 23223(a) of California’s State Vehicle Code states it is illegal for any person operating a motor vehicle on California’s highways or public roads to have in their possession “any bottle, can, or other receptacle, containing any alcoholic beverage that has been opened, or a seal broken, or the contents of which have been partially removed.” The same goes for any passenger, as stated in 23223(b).

Section 23225 states that the above may not be kept in a vehicle unless it is in the trunk, or out of reach if there is no trunk, or as a last resort inside a locked container.

The same rules apply to cannabis, in a container or otherwise, as stated in Section 23222.

All the detailed (and strangely repetitive) laws can be found right here, starting with the “no drinking or smoking weed by any driver or passenger” law of Section 23220.

 

Firearms and weapons

california illegal

Make of it what you will, but California is tougher on huckleberries than they are on handguns. As California’s Attorney General states regarding firearms information for new California residents:

 

Any person transporting handguns into California is required under California law to transport those handguns unloaded and in a locked container other than the glove compartment or utility compartment of a vehicle.”

 

In addition, the AG requires that you, as a gun owner, do one of three things within sixty days of moving to California: register your firearm, sell it to a licensed dealer (or to a third party through a licensed dealer), or sell it to the police or sheriff’s department.

While there is no specific mention of the legality of bringing shotguns or rifles into the state, under the Transporting Firearms in California section, the AG explains that these non-concealable firearms are not required to be transported in a locked container, but must be unloaded while in transit.

And just in case you were wondering, it would be best not to try to bring your assault weapon across the California border – or any border for that matter.

 

“Licensing your dog or cat in California once you’ve moved in is mandated and enforced locally. Check with your city or county for your specific required actions – preferably before you arrive.”

 

Unlike firearms (and much more like huckleberries), California “generally prohibits” a wide variety of weapons. California Penal Code 16590 lists nunchucks, cane swords, and lipstick case knives among the wide array of weapons that, if you have them, can land you in hot water. A pity for the aspiring spy, but it’s best to leave all of these behind if you’re moving to California.

 

Plants and produce

california illegal

California is right to be protective of its $30 billion agricultural industry. An outbreak of invasive insects and pests could wreak havoc on the economy of the state, and the supply of fruits and vegetables across the country. Therefore, the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) is not shy about stopping potential disasters at the border.

Houseplants that have not been grown outside are generally allowed, as long as they are potted in commercially sold soil and not dirt from your old backyard. If a plant shows any sign of infestation or disease it will quickly be confiscated. For more detailed guidelines check out these Q&A by the CDFA 

One large category of prohibited items might surprise you, and that’s all citrus plants. California is particularly serious about barring all of it, including loose pieces of citrus fruit, from being brought into the state. Many other fruits, as well as a number of nuts and vegetables, are also prohibited. This extensive list by the CDFA lays out all the fun and surprises.

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The process — and sometimes the long wait — at California’s border stations can seem like an unnecessary hassle when you’re sitting there in your loaded-up vehicle. But California alone produces a third of the country’s vegetables and three-quarters of its fruits and nuts. It makes sense for them to be tough.

Doing your part when you make your move to Cali makes their job, and the long lines, a little easier to take.


Illustrations by Marlowe Dobbe

How To Pack Art Supplies so Your Stuff Doesn’t Break

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As an artist, you probably consider yourself a bit of a free spirit. That’s a great quality when it comes to being creative, but a little less helpful when it comes time to move.

If you have an art studio full of supplies and one-of-a-kind works, the Herculean task of organizing, packing, and transporting it all requires a solid game plan and organization. But don’t worry, we have you covered with plenty of artist-recommended packing tips that’ll help you move your studio with as few hiccups as possible.


101 Moving Advice for Your Art Supplies (and Everything Else)

While your art supplies likely take up a big chunk of what you have to pack (and what you’re most concerned about), there are some tried and true tips that make any kind of move easier:

  • A scheduled moving checklist is the best tool to ensure everything gets done. Give this one a try
  • Creating a moving inventory prevents you from desperately going through boxes searching for something you need
  • A move is a great time to downsize. This will speed up the packing and moving process and make it cheaper to move
  • Hiring someone to do the loading and/or unloading for you, as well as having an idea of what you need to unload first (and therefore goes on the truck last) are both good ideas

What To Buy To Keep Your Paints From Spilling (and More) 

Now is not the time to skimp on quality packing supplies. Sure, free boxes work when you’re moving into your first apartment. But for expensive and/or delicate art supplies, you’ll want to invest in heavy-duty materials.

  • Sturdy cardboard boxes: We recommend buying at least a few boxes specifically designed for moving. They’re reinforced and are much sturdier than regular boxes, meaning there’s less of a chance that they’ll tear and scatter your art supplies everywhere. You can find specialty moving boxes at home improvement stores such as Home Depot and Lowe’s, as well as moving companies like ULINE and U-Haul.
  • Crates: For heavier items, use plastic crates or tote boxes instead of cardboard! Plastic crates also make for excellent storage post-move.
  • Packing peanuts: Filling space with packing peanuts means you won’t risk damaging your supplies with the constant vibration of your moving truck, especially on long-distance moves. Look for biodegradable options, which are plant-based and won’t add to landfills.
  • Bubble wrap: This will help protect ink jars and other breakables while you move. Grab a roll from your local hardware store and cushion your delicate art supplies.
  • Newspaper: Reusing newspapers is an eco-friendly way to protect your art studio supplies from potential harm. However, be sure you DO NOT use newspaper to wrap canvases, as the ink will transfer!
  • Labels: Color-coded labels will make your unpacking process much easier and will save you from trying to locate specific items in a sea of boxes afterward.
  • Plastic wrap: Choose smaller rolls of wrap for smaller items and bigger rolls for items like furniture. Plastic wrap is also great for keeping drawers closed and ensuring any small items ( like shelves and hardware) don’t get separated.
  • Cardboard tubes: Ideal for packing loose artwork. Paintings or drawings without frames risk being creased or scratched while moving, but gently rolling them and storing them in cardboard tubes greatly reduces the likelihood of damage.

How To Pack All Kinds of Different Art Supplies  

“Art” is a huge umbrella. You might be a traditional painter… or you might be into needlepoint or woodworking. But never fear, we reached out to several experts for tips on packing a huge variety of art supplies.  

Brushes

What to watch out for: Even the cleanest brushes often have traces of paint and other materials left on them — and many of those materials are flammable. Either clean your brushes before packing them, or make sure you label any boxes that contain used brushes so you can unload them first.

pack art suppliesHow to pack: Start by bundling your brushes together and securing them with elastic bands at the top and bottom. Then, wrap them up tightly with a roll of plastic wrap. Make sure the wrapping is tight before you put them in a box.

Paints

What to watch out for: Most paint is flammable, so for one, it should be packed carefully and clearly labeled. And for two, movers often won’t put buckets of paint on their moving trucks, so you might need to come up with an alternative transportation plan. If you’re unsure whether or not your paints are flammable, check the manufacturer’s labels. Take extra care to keep your paints out of direct sunlight.

 

“Chemicals like acetone, butane, and aerosol sprays are commonly found in art studios…most moving companies won’t move [them] due to the potential danger involved…double-check with the one you hired before loading any chemicals onto the truck.”

 

How to pack: Paint is notorious for leaking, even when the jars and tubes are tightly closed. Cover all of your paints individually in plastic wrap before packing them. This avoids an accidental abstract painting when you open up your moving boxes. 

Canvases and finished artwork 

What to watch out for: Certain packing materials, like newspaper and packing peanuts, can stick to your canvases or worse, transfer ink. The result is unwanted smears or imprints on the artwork you painstakingly created. 

How to pack: Always use plastic or bubble wrap to protect your canvases and finished work before using other packing materials. Once your canvases or artwork are wrapped, pack them safely into boxes with paper and packing peanuts to provide further protection.

Ceramics

pack art supplies

What to watch out for: Ceramics are more susceptible to breaking than other art supplies! If they aren’t adequately protected, protruding pieces like spouts and handles could break off as they move around inside your packing boxes.  

How to pack: Use newspaper and packing tape to fill the voids under handles and spouts. The goal is to wrap them so securely that you can’t see or feel any delicate protrusions on your ceramic pieces. Wrapping them this way will make each piece bulky, but the extra bulk is worth the protection. Pack your wrapped pieces snugly in boxes or crates to avoid excess movement while driving.

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Pastels, charcoal, pencils, markers

What to watch out for: Drawing utensils, especially charcoal and pastels, are delicate and need extra protection to avoid breakage while you move. The vibration from moving trucks and cars can easily cause pastels and charcoal to crumble, pencils to break, and markers to lose their caps.

How to pack: Bundle your pencils and markers and secure them with rubber bands. Once they’re bundled, cover them in plastic wrap. Place charcoal and pastels in small containers with lots of padding. Use paper towels, packing peanuts, or newspaper to cover the sides of the container before you pack them in boxes. 

Cameras

What to watch out for: Cameras and camera equipment are pricey investments you want to protect. Watch out for cracked lenses and damaged internal components in your camera body when moving art supplies.

How to pack: If you have a hard shell case with dense foam for your camera, you’re all set! If not, line a small box with a few layers of bubble wrap to reduce vibrations, then wrap your camera body and lenses with soft fabric like an old t-shirt or blanket. Pack your camera and equipment in small boxes BEFORE placing them in larger moving boxes. 

Lighting

What to watch out for: The last thing you want when you start unpacking is a box full of glass shards. Broken bulbs, as well as bent or creased shades, are the most important things to prevent when you move your art studio lighting. 

 

“Give yourself plenty of wiggle room when estimating when a task should be finished — you never know what could come up, how tiring packing can be, or what you might have forgotten at the start. “

 

How to pack: Pack your lightbulbs separately from your other art supplies. Secure them in bubble wrap or place them in a box with packing peanuts. Gently wrap all lampshades in paper, then nest them in a box with packing peanuts. Make sure to label this box with “Nothing On Top” so your shades won’t get crushed by heavier items!

Chemicals

What to watch out for: Chemicals like acetone, butane, and aerosol sprays are commonly found in art studios, and they need special attention and care. In fact, most moving companies won’t move chemical substances due to the potential danger involved. Be sure to double-check with the movers you hired before loading any chemicals onto the truck. 

How to pack: Make sure these items are wrapped in plastic, then placed into sealable bags before being put upright into a box. Clearly label the boxes and take them out of your vehicle before your other items. Also, pay attention to the temperature in your vehicle; allowing these chemicals to get too hot (or cold) while you’re traveling can be a hazard. 

Easels

What to watch out for: Easels have many pointy pieces that can quickly damage other items you pack. To avoid unwanted damage, pay special attention to how and where you pack them.

How to pack: Take your easel apart and place any screws or extra parts in a plastic baggie. Wrap the pieces in bubble wrap and then tape everything together to hold them in place. Get a sturdy box and fill it with packing peanuts, then place the easel in the box and securely surround the pieces with packing peanuts. 

Pottery wheels

What to watch out for: Keep an eye out for damage to the internal components of your pottery wheel. These wheels are sturdy, but they’ve got a lot of parts that could suffer damage from constant vibration during transport.

How to pack: First, wrap your entire wheel in plastic wrap. This helps to protect it by reducing vibration transfer and keeps everything snugly in place. Then use packing foam to line a box – ideally, one that just fits the foam and wheel. Finally, fill the empty spots around your wheel with packing peanuts before you close it up.

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Soldering irons

What to watch out for: Soldering irons are special tools, and you don’t want to harm them while you move between residences. Wrap it properly to prevent damage to the delicate parts of your soldering iron.

How to pack: Cover your soldering iron in plastic wrap or bubble wrap first, then use newspaper to create a nest that protects any protruding ends that could damage other items. Box it up with your other art studio supplies and make sure everything is securely in place. 

 

“DO NOT use newspaper to wrap canvases, as the ink will transfer!”

 

Model figurines and collectibles (e.g., cars, planes, trains, boats)

What to watch out for: You spent a lot of time building out model figurines and one-of-a-kind collectibles, so you want to do everything you can to keep them intact while you move. Often these collectibles are full of delicate pieces that could break and paint that could transfer.

How to pack: Wrap each figurine in plastic to avoid scratches or paint transfer. Packing peanuts can stick to some paints, especially in the heat, and potentially cause damage when you remove items from your packing box. Instead, wrap your collectibles in pieces of cloth to avoid any unwanted damage. 

Glass panes

What to watch out for: Glass breaks easily, of course. Sharp corners can pop through the outside of boxes if they’re not appropriately wrapped. Additionally, glass is heavy, so avoid overloading boxes or using ones that are too large to carry comfortably. 

How to pack: Roll glass panes in newspaper that’s bent at a 90-degree angle to create bumpers for each corner. Tape these securely with packing tape. Then, using packing tape again, create an ‘X’ across one side of the pane. This helps to reduce the chance that your glass will crack in transit. Finally, pack your glass panes together in a box with plenty of packing peanuts and bubble wrap for cushioning.

String and yarn

pack art supplies

What to watch out for: Knitters and crocheters know that yarn is super important — and occasionally, super expensive. Some styles of yarn are also quite flammable, like yarns made from acrylic and acrylic blends. Sounds crazy, but keep these yarns away from items like paint, chemicals, and other combustibles.

How to pack: After securing the ends of each skein to prevent tangles, neatly place them into a box. You can pack other things in this box that are breakable and use the yarn as cushioning. Just make sure that anything you pack with your yarn can’t leak. 


There’s no doubt about it — packing your art supplies is quite the task. And without a plan, you might lose a few of your favorite tools and works of art in the process. The good news is that you can make the process a lot more organized and low-stress by following some artist-recommended tips.

What To Expect When Moving from LA to NYC

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Each year, 9.8% of Americans move—and a third of those relocate to a new state. So if you’re thinking about moving from Los Angeles to New York City, you’re in good company.

But before you ditch the idyllic temps and less-than-idyllic traffic of L.A. for the skyscrapers and snowstorms of NYC, there are some key details to think through: 

  • How much does a cross-country move cost?
  • What exactly does a cross-country relocation entail?
  • What does it mean for your car?

As someone who grew up in L.A., I understand all of the amazing qualities of this sprawling city, but I also know why, after a while, you might want to try something new. After all, New York City is a big place, with 8 million people, 5 boroughs, and about 3,000 “best slice” spots. Here’s what I learned on my move.

From Coast to Coast: What You Need To Know When Moving from LA to NYC

los angeles move

As Frank Sinatra crooned, “If you can make it here, you’ll make it anywhere.” Of course, that implies it takes some fortitude to make it in NYC. (As a Los Angelino, you’ve already got that in spades.) 

Here are a few key differences to consider between the two cities:

  • Transportation: Los Angeles is a driving-centric town; you must have your own vehicle in L.A. But the traffic is atrocious, and it takes so long to get anywhere that you really have to think hard before every RSVP. NYC is all about walking, but the subway is always there as a backup. Although the multicolored Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) map might seem daunting at first, you’ll quickly get to know your local route, and your knowledge from memorizing overnight switchovers and deciphering the conductor’s messages will only grow.
  • “The Vibe”: There might be some culture shock if you’re used to laid-back vibes. They say that New Yorkers are mean and rude and, well, some people are! But to be fair, you can find gruff people anywhere. Both cities offer diverse communities who will likely love to chat about their favorite brunch spots, fitness fads, and what they love or hate about their town.
  • Weather: Are you sure you want to give up the beach? OK, to be fair, you don’t exactly have to! NYC offers access to Coney Island, the Rockaways, and the Hamptons, providing a variety of beach escapes with different vibes. The big change is that you only get to enjoy NYC beaches for a few months out of the year. Then again, there’s something to be said for adding chic coats to your wardrobe.

la to nycWhat’s the cost of living in NYC vs. L.A.?

One thing that New Yorkers love to talk about is how much everything costs. So, let’s talk about money. 

NYC has one of the nation’s highest median incomes: $87,745. 

However, you should also consider that rising housing costs and the overall cost of living counteract some of those take-home benefits. One study shows that when today’s median household income is adjusted against county cost of living, New York County ranks very poorly: No. 3,105 in the U.S.

So, you can’t simply ask, “Is it cheaper to live in L.A. or NYC?” It’s important to really take into account your own lifestyle and the factors that might impact your take-home pay—everything from groceries to movie theater tickets. Both L.A. and NYC are unsurprisingly among the most expensive cities in the United States; L.A. ranks No. 7, Brooklyn comes in at No. 4, and Manhattan owns the dubious honor of No. 1. 

See fast facts below, based on the latest findings from the Council for Community and Economic Research.

  • Typical Monthly Rent (across all rentals):
    • Manhattan: $4,604 
    •  Brooklyn: $3,532
    •  Los Angeles: $2,717
  • Median Home Value:
    • Manhattan: $2.4M
    • Brooklyn: $734,800
    • Los Angeles: $670,700
  • Grocery Premiums:
    • Manhattan: 44% above the national average
    • Brooklyn: 11%
    • Los Angeles: 26%
  • Transportation:
    • Manhattan: 18% above the national average
    • Brooklyn: 11%
    • Los Angeles: 10%

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Moving to “Post-COVID-19” NYC

A few things have changed about living in New York since 2020, several of which might inform a move to NYC. 

One factor is that renters in NYC might need to pay broker fees again. These fees, which can range from one month’s rent to 15% of annual rent, were briefly prohibited in 2020. However, that is a “might”, because it’s possible to sort listings so that only no-fee apartments are displayed in your searches. In some cases, the amount itself may be negotiable, but this is something to discuss with a broker up-front.

 

“Consider that the 40-hour drive from LA to NYC takes about four days on average to complete—and that’s with an average vehicle, not a large moving truck.”

 

Another thing is that prices have steeply increased from the all-time lows of the pandemic. Not only are NYC prices rising, but it’s made bidding on apartments pretty fierce. Prospective renters might offer to pay over the asking rate, sign leases sight unseen, put down deposits in cash, and do other things that would’ve seemed crazy year ago. While competitive, you probably aren’t used to competition this fierce in LA.

How to ensure you get an apartment in NYC

What helps most is to know exactly what you’re looking for so that you know it when you see it, and that you’re ready to act.

Have all of your paperwork on hand so that you can apply for an apartment right away; typical documents include pay stubs (or similar proof of employment), records from the past year’s tax returns, and proof of the money that’s currently in your bank account (or other assets you hold).

The Mover’s Guide for How To Get From Here (L.A.) to There (NYC)

la to nyc move

You’ve made your decision to pack up and head off to the opposite coast. Congrats! Now it’s time for the actual moving part. Although it’s impossible to provide one guide that will suit every situation, this at-a-glance overview offers useful and comprehensive tips for moving to NYC.

How to get your move out of L.A. started

It’s not really possible nowadays to simply decide you’re leaving today. Several experts recommend booking movers two months ahead of your trip, but this is a general rule.  Given this is a long-distance move, you might want to start as far back as three months, especially if you’ll be moving during the busy summer season, which books up fast!

Pack now!

When a friend of mine moved to NYC recently, she started planning a few months out and felt pretty confident, but looking back, she says she could have benefitted from a little extra time to double-check everything, pack a little earlier and slower, and itemize and appraise some of her belongings. Case in point: a few of her boxes went missing. But she had difficulty holding her movers accountable — she wasn’t 100% certain about what specifically was lost because she’d marked them down broadly (i.e., “Kitchen”).

You need to look at NYC places well in advance

Unfortunately, housing inventory doesn’t show up online too far in advance of its availability in NYC. At best, you might see it listed a month early, but that might not feel like a lot of time to find somewhere to live, put in an application, and get everything in order while also planning your move. 

 

“With moving containers, you pack all your stuff up and have it driven cross-country for you!”

 

Consider a temporary location, like an Airbnb

This is why some people find temporary places to stay at first or lease places without ever visiting them. If possible, schedule a weekend trip to NYC about a month ahead of your move and plan long days with back-to-back viewings until you find a place. For this to succeed, you might want to enlist a broker and develop a relationship so that they understand your needs.

Tips to make your NYC move-in day smoother

nyc move

While moving days anywhere might have their little quirks depending on the city, here are some NYC-specific tips for the big day. 

Check and double-check your apartment measurements

Many New York buildings are old (like remodeled tenements), and even new builds are often atypical in size and shape to make the most of limited square footage (Ever hear of “shoebox” apartments?). Measure:

  • Your doorways (they are not all standard)
  • Halls (especially corners)
  • Stairwells (plus, count the flights if it’s a walk-up)

Make sure you can actually get everything into your apartment before you put so much effort into moving your items to NYC!

For move-in, you might need to show your building proof that your movers are insured

This protects the building in the event that any damage occurs to stairwells, hallways, and the like so forth, during the move-in process. Professional moving companies are used to being asked about this, but it might cost a small fee to request a copy of their proof of insurance. (Tip: If the building doesn’t bring this up, don’t ask!)

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How to haul all your stuff to NYC

You have a few options for getting yourself (and all your belongings) to NYC:

  • Do-It-Yourself: Some people think the main advantage of DIY is saving money, but this may or may not be true depending on how you go about it. Consider that the 40-hour drive from LA to NYC takes about four days on average to complete — and that’s with an average vehicle, not a large moving truck. You’ll have to think about paying for gas across about 2,800 miles. And if you park at hotels and motels along the way, you’ll want to make sure your worldly belongings stay secure in your truck while you sleep.
  • All-In-One/Full-Service: Many people enjoy using moving services that do packing, move-out, transport, move-in, and unpacking (or some combination of those options). The obvious perk is convenience because it lets you focus on other aspects of the move. However, it’s important to find a company you trust, since they’re handling every element of your move. 
  • Shipping Containers: A solution like PODS might be ideal for moving to NYC, because PODS gives you both storage and moving in one service, and you only have to load and unload one time. With moving containers, you pack all your stuff up and have it driven cross-country for you! Once your containers get to New York, you have the option to leave them in storage for as long as you need while you find a place to live and get yourself settled. Then, once you’re ready, you just book your container delivery and unload everything into your new place.

How much does it cost to move from L.A. to NYC?

la to nyc move

First of all, give yourself time to price-shop! Do your research, compare prices, and don’t be afraid to bring other company quotes to places you prefer and ask them to match them. 

And don’t assume all moving companies are the same. Some are definitely more trustworthy and experienced than others.

Remember my friend whose items got “lost” when moving to NYC? She later learned that other complaints about that company losing belongings were buried on Google. With a little more time spent, she would have turned those up before losing her entire jewelry box while trying to save a few bucks.

The great thing is that most websites offer free quotes based on your specific details. Here are a few quotes that I turned up for each of the options above using exact NYC addresses:

  • DIY (Rent and Drive a Truck Yourself): $179–$219 (per day, truck rental) + $1,088 (total gas, assuming an average moving truck’s MPG and current national gas price average as of September 2022)
  • Full-Service: $4,290–$7,280
  • Shipping Containers: $3,368–$4,420

The main takeaway is that while the DIY and shipping container options look a lot cheaper than full-service, when all is said and done, the final numbers may not be so far off from each other. It all depends on which company you use, whether or not you choose to drive, how long you take to drive if you choose to, and little add-ons like getting insurance, permits, or adding moving labor

Rather than concentrate entirely on the price tag, decide what really works best for your move — then pursue the best company and a fair price.

What’s the best time of year to move to NYC?

la to nyc moveGenerally, it’s cheaper to move during winter months and holiday weekends when fewer people are moving and demand is lower. 

Demand is highest during a few peak dates in New York City: June 1 or 15 and September 1 or 15.

On and around those dates, it’s more difficult to find movers and rental trucks. But in NYC, there’s more to consider. For example, if you move into a high-rise building, you’ll often need to reserve special parking spots for move-in trucks (loading zones), and you might need to reserve the building’s freight elevators for furniture and big boxes. 

Parking slots can fill up on prime move-in days, meaning that even if your lease is starting on June 1, if you can’t reserve parking and elevators, you might need to bring some of your things on another day in order to meet the building’s move-in policies and codes. If you’re moving into a more relaxed building, these might not be concerns.

Remember, consider available apartment inventory. If you choose a month when fewer people are moving out, there might be fewer vacancies for you to choose from.

“…if you move into a high-rise building, you’ll often need to reserve special parking spots for move-in trucks…and you might need to reserve the building’s freight elevators for furniture and big boxes.”

 

Do I need a car in NYC?

This is a question that always gets asked, and there are, unfortunately, only three real answers:

  • Sell it. Some people have cars in NYC, but the hassle of parking it is typically not worth the convenience of having it. Renting spaces can be anywhere from $200–$500 per month, while street parking requires moving your car to alternate sides of the road almost every day to avoid getting a ticket.
  • Tow it. If you’re driving yourself across the country, you can easily tow your car behind the truck and bring it with you.
  • Drive it. If your belongings are being moved separately, you could take a nice, long road trip and see more of the U.S. Don’t forget to factor in today’s gas prices and your car’s mileage.

How much money should I save before moving to NYC?

It’s hard to give an exact number to save up before you make your move since that figure really depends on where you’re going and what your rent situation will be. But I can give you a list of factors that can help you come up with a number that makes sense.

You’ll need to have enough money to cover:

  • Moving costs (see above)
  • First month’s rent
  • Last month’s rent
  • Security deposit (which is typically equivalent to a month’s rent)
  • Tipping your movers: Make a good impression by tipping your doormen, movers, and anyone who helps you get settled. They will remember, and it will go a long way toward ensuring a more pleasant acclimation period.
  • Cabs/takeout/extras: When you move, you’ll be exhausted, and you’ll spend a few days ordering takeout and taking cars everywhere instead of walking. This is one of those rare times it really does help to throw money at the problem—pad your budget just enough.

All in all, you’re easily looking at ~$5,000+ estimate for moving from L.A. to NYC. That’s between a rental truck or moving service, first and last month’s rent, and other miscellaneous costs. (Even the most extreme DIY scenario will still net a couple grand in expenses.)

Of course, it’s always good to add some buffer in there to cover the extras that are sure to come up. Nothing makes you feel more like a New Yorker than a crazy curveball thrown at you at the moment you least expect it.

Hopefully, this advice helps you feel more confident about moving from L.A. to NYC. Now all you need to do is take the leap.


Illustrations by Meredith Miotke

The Best Ways To Promote Your Moving Company Using Video Content

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When promoting your business, it’s important to use every tool available to you. That includes video marketing.

In 2022, consumers spend an average of 19 hours per week watching videos online (according to one survey by Wyzowl.) In general, video content helps boost sales, supports marketing campaigns, and gains you followers on social media platforms. In fact, 87% of video marketers from that same survey reported that video gave them a positive return on whatever amount they invested into it.


What to consider before creating a marketing video

marketing video

Those numbers probably sound exciting. But what should you know before you dive into trying to make a video for your moving business?

What’s your budget?

Creating video doesn’t have to be prohibitively expensive, but it is important to have an idea of your budget ahead of time.

If you make a video (that isn’t just on your smartphone), the average cost of video production is around $1,000 to $5,000 per finished minute. That’s a pretty wide range, and your equipment, staff, and other factors will impact the final cost. Still, if you’re serious about getting some serious returns, this is a good benchmark to help start your planning. 

Be sure that if you’re going to invest in video, you don’t skimp on important expenses. Quality is often much more important than quantity when it comes to video.

What results are you expecting?

Also consider why you’re creating a video and what results you expect from it. It’s important to set “SMART” goals, which stands for:

  • Specific
  • Measurable
  • Achievable
  • Realistic
  • Timely

For example, if you want to get into video production in order to increase your social media following, a good SMART goal may be: “Grow TikTok followers by 10% over the next three months”. Get it? 

And it’s not the end of the world if you don’t hit your goal, especially in the beginning while you’re still learning. The point is to have something to work toward!

Make a style and keep it

Keeping a consistent style is also important, especially when it comes to branding and engagement. You don’t have to do the exact same thing every time, but viewers should eventually grow to recognize your videos based on the general look and format.

There are many directions you can go stylistically. Will you be speaking directly to the camera? Will you be demonstrating an activity that needs a certain viewpoint? Will you include animation. Know the answers to these questions before you get started so you ensure you have the right props and equipment.

How To Make High-Quality Videos 

video

In most cases, you want your videos to look high quality and professionally produced. This requires investing in the right equipment. Fortunately, there are quality options out there to fit a range of budgets. 

Equipment required 101

Camera: There are many types of cameras on the market that are good for certain types of filming. The most popular options today are DSLR and mirrorless. They have interchangeable lenses and are small and portable. When shopping for cameras, important specs to compare include resolution, frame rate, image stabilization, autofocus, and more. You can expect to spend around $400 to $1,000 for a basic consumer version of DSLR camera, or $2,000 to $3,000 for a basic professional model. Higher-end models can be several thousand dollars.

microphone cameraSound: How your video sounds is just as important as how it looks. It all starts with choosing the right microphone (you don’t want to rely on the one built into your camera). Again, you have many options for external microphones. For example, a top-mic, which sits on top of your camera, is a good place to start. When choosing a mic, be sure it has a shotgun or super-cardioid polar pattern, which picks up sound from the front while blocking out sounds from the side. It also needs a good shock mount to avoid any noise from handling the camera. You can also try a lavalier mic, which attaches to a person’s clothing, and can either be wired or wireless.

 

“Thumbnails (small preview images used to represent videos) are the first thing people notice when scanning through YouTube and other social media sites. If you don’t have a compelling thumbnail image for your video, you could lose out on clicks.”

 

Lighting: Lighting can make or break the quality of your video. The professionals use a three-point lighting technique, which involves a key light, fill light, and backlight set up at certain angles to control brightness and shadowing. As for what types of lights to use, you guessed it: There are many choices. Natural light is often the best (and cheapest) option. But if you’re filming indoors or at odd hours, you can use simple clamp lights. If you go this route, make sure all the bulbs have the same temperature and brightness.

You can also try a ring light if you plan to sit and speak directly into the camera. And if your budget is a bit larger, you can buy studio lights, which run a few hundred dollars each. 

Editing technology: Finally, you’ll need software to edit your video and get it ready for the world to see. Some of the most popular, beginner-friendly video editing tools include After Effects, Adobe Premiere Pro, and Final Cut Pro. These professional tools do require either a one-time licensing fee or monthly subscription, so if you’re not sure which program would be best for your team, you can try out some free options first:

  • Free online editing tools: Just because some video editing software is free doesn’t mean you can’t create professional-quality videos. They may not have the same level of features, but you can accomplish everything needed to put a great video together. Some good options for free editing tools include DaVinci Resolve, Lightworks, HitFilm, Adobe Express Video Editor, and Canva Video. Some of these tools offer both a free and paid version with more features. 
  • Apps: If you’re working on shorter clips, like videos meant for social media, you could use a free video editing app. Some popular options include Apple’s iMovie, PowerDirector, and Promeo.

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Optimize your videos for mobile 

Mobile video consumption doubles every year. As of 2020 4.18 billion people – which is over half of the global population – are mobile internet users, according to Hootsuite. Which is why it’s crucial to optimize your videos to be viewed on mobile devices. 

Square videos tend to get more interaction, plus they take up more space in mobile news feeds. Be sure to make any text large enough to be seen on a smaller screen, as well, and ensure you include captions for those who are watching without sound. Also, keep it short, since mobile users have short attention spans. 

Make effective thumbnails 

Thumbnails (small preview images used to represent videos) are the first thing people notice when scanning through YouTube and other social media sites. If you don’t have a compelling thumbnail image for your video, you could lose out on clicks. 

It can help to include title text to give more context to what viewers are about to see. Also, pay attention to the font style you choose, and make sure it’s consistent and matches your brand. As for the actual impact, bright, contrasting colors will catch the eyes of scrollers. Just be sure that the image you choose is relevant to the video and a good representation of what it’s about.

“You don’t have to do the exact same thing every time, but viewers should eventually grow to recognize your videos based on the general look and format.”

 

Optimize for Google (SEO)

Search engine optimization (SEO) means making sure your content is visible to search engines and will show up at the top of search result pages. It’s another way to expand the reach of your video content and ensure that it gets in front of the people who are looking for it. 

Just like blog posts, the keywords you include in the video’s title and meta description are important. Do some keyword research to find out what terms people are searching for that relate to your video, then ensure those terms are used (naturally) in the metadata. Remember that even though you are optimizing for search bots, the text should still be engaging and interesting to actual humans. Be sure the rest of the page that hosts your video is optimized as well.

Ways To Promote Video Content 

The more eyes you can get on your videos, there more opportunity they have to gain virality. So make sure all your videos have buttons for sharing on major social networks (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, TikTok, etc.). Even better, allow viewers to grab the embed code so they can repost, keeping in mind there are slightly different protocols depending on the platform.

Integrate other marketing strategies 

tiktok logo

Video marketing can work great on its own, but it often works best when incorporated into a larger marketing strategy. 

For example, you can create an email marketing campaign that features your videos, which can help increase subscribers, open rates, and return viewers. Or tie a video into a giveaway on your social media accounts, which will not only increase views, but (hopefully) lead to more followers as well. 

Even embedding videos into blog posts or landing pages can help you keep users on your site longer, increase engagement, and help your content rank better in search. One study by  EyeWideDigital found that having a video on a landing page increased conversions by a whopping 80%.

Create engaging content with trending topics

Create something with value for your viewers, research trending topics in your industry and make something informative and helpful.

Tips for Planning Exceptional Video Content

movers content

  • Create a calendar: Just as you would make an editorial calendar for written content, it’s helpful to calendar out your video content, too. This can help you keep track of various projects and deadlines, as well as plan videos around important trends and campaigns. You can keep it simple and use Excel or Google Sheets to manage your video calendar, or look into a special tool for video planning.
  • Create storyboards: Another way to keep your video creation organized is by storyboarding. This essentially serves as an outline for your video, allowing you to plan out the scenes and see if there are any gaps – before you start spending money on production.
  • Create social media stories: You can repurpose the videos you make by turning clips into social media stories or reels and driving views back to the full piece. 
  • Check out video trends: Not sure where to start? Do some research and see what’s trending in popular videos today. For instance, shoppable videos are growing in popularity, as are augmented/virtual reality videos and even silent videos.
  • Make informative tutorials and how-to guides: If you’re not ready to delve into virtual reality just yet, simple explainers are usually a hit. Consider whiteboarding a concept or showing how to do something with a short, fun animation. For moving companies, this may be a video for packing difficult items like fragile jewelry or art supplies.
  • Make top 10 lists: People also respond well to listicles and rankings. So consider experimenting with this format in video. Try creating a video around the top 10 do’s and don’ts when moving, 10 tips for packing, top 10 items to bring and not to bring… you get the idea. 
  • Show the best ways to use your service: It can also be helpful if you use video to explain how your business works and how to get the most out of your service. 
  • Explain how to do something: 
  • Bring testimonials to life: Written testimonials are one thing, but seeing a real, live person talking about how your business has helped them can build a lot of trust with potential customers. Putting testimonials in video format can help boost conversions and trust in your brand. For business owners, think about clients who have expressed their satisfaction with your stellar service. A short, 30-minute interview can be repurposed into multiple video testimonial clips for different audiences. Even easier, ask them to voice-record their written review or testimonial and use it as audio in promotional videos.
  • Make video infographics: If you have interesting data to share, you can visualize it in an entertaining and easy-to-digest way by turning it into a video. A compelling infographic can also help you stand out from the sea of existing video content and gain traction on social platforms. Consider sharing helpful data about moving to and from your area, 
  • Share industry expertise: Are you considered an expert in your industry? Do you have insights to share that can benefit customers or your peers? Show how knowledgeable you are and help viewers gain a better understanding of a certain topic by sharing that info in a video. This can be anything from how to time your move to save money to common scams and how to avoid them.

The Bottom Line 

Today, video production is an important part of a business’s marketing strategy.

If you haven’t incorporated video into your marketing efforts, it’s time to start. It’s possible to create professional, entertaining videos on just about any budget. And you don’t need to be an expert in videography. As long as you invest in the right tools, your business can benefit from video marketing. Remember, quality is more important than quantity.

Penske Vs. U-Haul: Is Penske a Cheaper Alternative to U-Haul?

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With the way U-Haul advertises its pricing—“as low as $19.95”—the ubiquitous rental truck brand might seem like your most affordable option at first glance, but how does it really stack up against other rental truck companies like Penske?

We recently rented a Penske truck for the same local move for which we rented a U-Haul, allowing us a rare opportunity for a mostly apples-to-apples comparison.

What happened? Hint: The answer to the question “is Penske more expensive than Uhaul” isn’t super obvious, but we’ve got some tips to figure out which is the better option for your move. 


Penske Vs. U-Haul Price Comparison

Let’s just get down to brass tacks.

For the exact same local move using the smallest size truck, we came to the conclusion that Penske is generally more expensive than U-Haul for short-distance local moves. 

However, when you crunch the numbers:

  • Penske is generally the more affordable choice for local moves over a certain number of miles, as well as
  • Situationally more affordable for long-distance/one-way moves (read on)

In my mid-market region of Tampa, we calculated the magic number where Penske becomes the better option to be 107.7 miles. Sounds specific? That’s because we did a little math based on both Penske’s and U-Haul’s current 2022 mileage fees (more on that later, too).

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Here Are My Penske and Uhaul Bills

I did two identical 8-mile moves with U-Haul and Penske, and I included the most basic insurance coverage you can buy.

Not including gas (which will definitely matter the more you drive), here was the bill:

U:Haul: $44.89 

Penske: $61.17 

 

“Penske trucks average 17% more fuel efficiency than U-Haul for their regular unleaded vehicles, and are up to 23% more efficient than U-Haul with their larger diesel trucks.”

 

Before we REALLY break down these numbers, here’s what our final bills were based on:

  • It was a local move (a total of 8 miles)
  • We rented the smallest rental trucks available (10-foot model for U-Haul, 16-foot for Penske)
  • We bought the cheapest basic insurance options

Note: Wondering why you see a 16-foot Penske up there?

In order to make an accurate comparison for a small move, we tried to rent the 12-ft. Penske box truck, as this is their smallest box truck size (they don’t have a 10-footer like U-Haul does). However, the Penske dealer nearest us only had the 16-ft truck available. However, they claimed it was the same price anyway as the 12-footer ($29.99 per day), so we’re laying out all of the following as if we had rented a 12-foot truck.

 

 


Penske Vs. Uhaul: The Basic Cost Difference in Fees (Local Move)

 Penske 12-Ft. Box Truck (Smallest Size)   U-Haul 10-Ft. Box Truck (Smallest Size) 
Starting Price $29.99* $19.95
Cubic Feet  450 ft3  402 ft3
Mileage Fee  .79 per mile .99 per mile
Vehicle Licensing Recovery Fee $2.50 $0.00 
Environmental Fee $4.00 $1.00
Most Basic Insurance $20.00 $14.00
Total Starting Price (Before Driving) $56.49 $34.95
*Starting prices vary regionally for Penske. The ones you see above are based on the Tampa Bay region pricing, a mid-market. We’ve seen as much as a $20.00 difference (starting at $49.95 for the 12-ft. truck) in places like Buffalo, New York.

 

Note that the difference in the total starting price—the barebones cost before you drive off the lot and start racking up miles—is $21.54. Yes, U-Haul was $21.54 cheaper than Penske… to start with

U-Haul continues to have the price advantage up until a certain point, depending on the mileage cost difference. (That’s because U-Haul’s cost per mile was 20 cents more expensive.) But up to what point does this start to matter?

penske truckWhen does U-Haul’s more expensive mileage fee start to matter?

We calculated when the distance driven in a U-Haul starts to overtake the price savings, which is $0.20/mi. ($0.99/mi. – $0.79/mi.).

So $21.54 ➗ $.20/mi. = 107.7 miles.

I get it, math is hard. But what this means is that once we hit 107.7 miles driven for our move, Penske started to have a competitive advantage price-wise with respect to the MILEAGE RATE (the added fee per mile driven).

But note that this doesn’t even account for any miles per gallon savings. Uh, so what does that mean?

Penske trucks are generally more fuel efficient

Guess what? Penske trucks by and large are more fuel efficient than U-Haul trucks!

This means, for example, if you’re renting the 12-ft. or 16-ft. regular-unleaded Penske trucks—which once again are more fuel efficient than U-Haul’s—you might save over 25% on gas (way more about this later). 

You can imagine how much of a difference it would make if the gas mileage jumps up even just $.20/mi. for U-Haul. In this hypothetical case, it would divide the number of miles you’d need to drive in order to start saving from Penske in half. 

 

“Besides its size, truck availability in your area will heavily affect the price of your Penske truck.”

 

Don’t forget to factor in doing local round-trips

All this being said, our personal rental journey was a very small move. Eight miles total is teeny-tiny! But keep in mind it’s usually not too difficult to rack up more miles than that.

For example, say you’re moving 15 miles away, but need to make three round trips to get everything. Those three roundtrips can add up to at least 90 miles, and that doesn’t even include your little detour to Chick-fil-A for lunch.


Penske Vs. U-Haul Truck Rental Costs

How much are Penske rentals? Well, for starters, average Penske truck rental prices typically go between $30-40.

As of this writing, Penske and U-Haul advertise the following sizes, from smallest to largest.

uhaul trucks
U-Haul truck options – Uhaul.com

 

Penske vs. U-Haul Truck Prices
Penske* U-Haul
Cargo Van – ~$39.95 Pickup Truck – $19.95
12’ Box Truck –  ~$29.95 Cargo Van – $19.95
16’ Box Truck – ~$29.95 10’ Box Truck – $19.95
22’ Box Truck – (Price not advertised) 15’ Box Truck – $29.95
26’ Box Truck – ~$299.99  17’ Box Truck – $39.95
20’ Box Truck – $39.95
26’ Box Truck – $39.95
*All starting prices are based on monitoring one mid-market region.

 

penske truck rental
Penske truck options – Pensketruckrental.com

 

U-Haul offers roughly 2-3 more options than Penske does depend on your location—a pick-up truck and a ~17-ft. box truck. The sizes are different, so an exact comparison is kinda tricky. But we can say that Penske trucks generally have between 1-2 extra feet of truck compared to every U-Haul option, except for the larger 17-ft. U-Haul truck.

Remember, starting prices for rental trucks vary regionally for Penske. Meanwhile, local U-Haul truck costs are typically consistent everywhere.

Yes, we tried, but we couldn’t get a clearer picture of all the Penske truck rental prices for our area… and Penske keeps it vague on purpose.

Penske Truck Prices Vary Daily

Why do Penske prices vary?

Besides its size, truck availability in your area will heavily affect the price of your Penske truck. Most importantly, this means it’s gonna be more expensive in the summertime when everyone is moving. (We’ll break down the logic of this pricing policy in the long-distance section down below.)

When we asked Penske how much the day rate was for their 22-ft. truck, they told us they had none available that day, but they reportedly could be “Sometimes $59.00, sometimes $69.00, sometimes $100.00.”

Well, how much is the biggest Penske truck?

penske truck
Largest Penske truck – Move.org

Upon further digging, the day rate quote for the 26-footer in Buffalo, New York was $299.99! In Columbus, Ohio, it was also $299.99!

 

“…Penske trucks generally have between 1-2 extra feet of truck compared to every U-Haul option, except for the larger 17-ft. U-Haul truck.”

 

It seems $299.99 tends to be the standard pricing across the board for the massive truck size, at least during the busy season. But remember, as people stop moving so much, these larger trucks won’t need to be schlepped around city to city to accommodate the high demand, driving down their price.

Can you rent a Penske truck for more than one day?

If you’re doing an in-town move and dropping off the truck at the same location, you can rent a Penske truck for as many days as the truck is available.

The same per-day rate would apply for each day. The same goes for U-Haul. You can rent your truck for as long as you need, as long as it hasn’t been reserved by someone else.

Note: Make sure you drop off your Penske at the same location if you’re doing a local move. Just as with U-Haul, you may be charged a convenience fee or more (this can vary by location, as there is no universal rule).

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Penske’s Trailer Rental Options

Penske offers just two trailers, and they’re both for towing vehicles, not stuff.

If you’re moving and need to tote your car along, you might be wondering which you should choose.

In terms of functionality, they both get the job done in their own way. Also, there is a notable difference between Penske and U-Haul’s trailers: no hitch installation is necessary with Penske! But unlike U-Haul, there are no utility trailers, cargo trailers, or motorcycle trailers for rent from Penske.

Here’s how the two Penske trailer options compare.

Penske Tow Dolly

penske tow dolly
Penske tow dolly – adamsrs.com

A tow dolly operates by having the front wheels of the vehicle strapped onto the hitched dolly, while the back wheels of the vehicle are pulled along the road. 

  • A tow dolly cannot be safely reversed, so you’re committed to forward motion only
  • A tow dolly cannot safely or easily tow four-wheel or rear-wheel drive cars

Note: If you’re using a tow dolly and your vehicle is rear-wheel or four-wheel drive, the drive shaft must be disconnected—otherwise your transmission may be badly damaged! 

For a full “tow-dolly” instructional, watch the video below. 

 

Penske Car Carrier

Penske car carrier
Penske car carrier – digitalcorvettes.com

A car carrier carries all four of the vehicle’s tires on its bed. 

  • A car carrier can be reversed
  • A car carrier safely tows any vehicle within its size/weight restrictions

 

Here are the technical specs of both of these trailer options, per Penske’s website.

Since Penske doesn’t allow the towing of non-Penske trailers, carriers, or dollies, and because their hitches are specifically engineered for their own proprietary equipment, you have to rent a Penske truck if you rent a Penske tow dolly or car carrier. This would also mean that “4 down towing” (that is, four wheels down) isn’t an option with Penske because they don’t have the equipment for it (that said, 4 down towing isn’t as safe, anyway).

If you’re looking to rent a trailer for your OWN vehicle to tow, your better bet is U-Haul. With U-Haul, however, you still need to make sure you have the proper hitch on your vehicle, so if you don’t have one, you’ll need to include hitch installation in your budget, which can be pricey!


Penske Vs. U-Haul Mileage and Gas Fees

In general, for U-Haul, the added price per mile for in-town fees (i.e., local moves) seems to be region-specific, while Penske’s is always the same.

U-Haul

We’ve seen U-Haul’s mileage fees as low as $0.79 (e.g., Buffalo, New York), and as high as $1.19 (e.g., Portland, Oregon). U-Haul’s mileage fees tend to be more expensive than Penske’s mileage fees.

Penske

However, with Penske, at least for now, the mileage fee remains consistent across the country: $0.79 per mile

For shorter moves, U-Haul’s higher mileage fee doesn’t make much of a difference, cost-wise. But once you get up into the 80+ mile range, you can see it really adds up.

Penske Local Move Mileage Fees (the Tacked-on Cost Per Mile)

Check out this chart for our own mid-market move in Tampa Bay:

 Miles Driven   Penske Mileage Fee   U-Haul Mileage Fee 
8 $6.32 $7.92
20 $15.80 $19.8
40 $31.60 $39.60
80 $63.20 $79.20
160 $126.40 $158.40
200 $158.00 $198.00
This chart is based on Penske’s $0.79 mileage fee and U-Haul’s $0.99 mileage fee for the mid-market Tampa Bay region, as of 8/7/2022. 

 

That’s a savings of $40 by using U-Haul!

Now let’s see what it looks like if we do the same thing with the higher Portland, Oregon prices (Penske: $0.79, U-Haul: $1.19):

 Miles Driven   Penske Mileage Fee   U-Haul Mileage Fee 
8 $6.32 $9.52
20 $15.80 $23.80
40 $31.60 $47.60
80 $63.20 $95.20
160 $126.40 $190.40
200 $158.00 $238.00

When mileage fees contribute more to your bill, you’d save a whopping $80 by choosing Penske!

With a price differential this big, this is where you begin to see substantial savings from Penske on a longer mileage move with same-location drop-off. Not to mention the added miles per gallon (MPG) gas savings.

How do Penske’s gas fees work?

gas pump

Gas fees simply refer to any costs associated with how much gas needs to be in the tank when you return the truck.

Penske estimates how many miles you will go and charges you for estimated gas usage ahead of time.

For example: For same-location drop-offs (i.e., local moves), the $0.79 per mile fee is tallied up after you return the vehicle. For us, they included 50 miles already baked into our rental quote. From there, however many miles you go under or over this number will be credited or debited from your final bill.

So if the quote seems more than expected, this could be because they automatically estimated a 50 miles minimum. There is, however, no actual minimum mileage fee! Keep this in mind if you collect local move quotes from other truck companies, such as U-Haul or Budget.

 

“…you have to rent a Penske truck if you rent a Penske tow dolly or car carrier(i)f you’re looking to rent a trailer for your OWN vehicle to tow, your better bet is U-Haul.”

 

Do I have to fill my Penske truck with extra gas?

Regardless of how much you use, you are expected to return your truck with the gas tank filled to where it was when you picked it up.

But a word to the wise: All of these trucks have pretty enormous gas tanks, so don’t overfill! This could cost you. Bring the gas gauge up to full, and stop there. It might be best to fill based on the miles you drove. Just take a look at the gauge! Otherwise, it could cost you another $20 or more to top it off. This is actually what happened to us! We drove 8 miles and spent $17 in gas topping it off (oops!).

Click here to learn more about how to save gas money on your Penske truck.

How much mileage do Penske trucks get?

penske mileage

Penske trucks are actually well-known for their fuel efficiency. Compared to U-Haul, Penske gas mileage stacks up quite well.

Penske trucks average 17% more fuel efficiency than U-Haul for their regular unleaded vehicles, and are up to 23% more efficient than U-Haul with their larger diesel trucks

This is another factor that works in the consumer’s favor for medium to long same-location moves (meaning you pick up and drop off the truck at the same location). The downside is that the two largest Penske trucks are diesel, and diesel gas prices are on the rise. So, a clear picture of actual savings becomes difficult, since U-Haul has no diesel trucks—here, it’s apples to oranges.

Sources: https://www.uhaul.com/Truck-Rentals/15ft-Moving-Truck/https://www.pensketruckrental.com/commercial-truck-rental/commercial-trucks/one-way-fleet/12-foot-truck/

 

Does regular unleaded vs. diesel matter?

It depends on the economy!

At the time of this writing, diesel fuel price per gallon is slightly over $1.00 more than regular unleaded in our neck of the woods (Central Florida). In the 2000s they were basically neck and neck, whereas, in the 1980s and 1990s, diesel was up to 50% cheaper. But since gas prices are so volatile right now in 2022, prices could still change at any moment.

It’s important to check your local gas prices before moving day, as the more miles you rack up, the more dough you might save… or lose! If you want to know an exact cost difference, weigh the price of diesel against the vehicle’s MPG (mileage per gallon) to get a true comparison.

U-Haul (Unleaded) Vs. Penske (Sometimes Diesel)

U-Haul has no diesel trucks, while only Penske’s two largest trucks use diesel (as of this writing). This theoretically could matter for your final truck cost.

diesel fuel penske

For example, let’s say you travel 40 miles for your move in a 20-ft. U-Haul truck (which gets 10 miles to the gallon). You would need four gallons of regular unleaded gas, totaling $15.56 in unleaded fuel.

Now, let’s say you drive the same 40 mi. in Penske’s 22-ft diesel truck, which gets 13 mpg. This is 40 ÷ 13 = 3.08 gallons needed.

3.08/gal. x $4.99 per gallon = $15.36 in diesel fuel. 

So even at the current, absurdly high rate of diesel fuel, you still miraculously save about $0.05 per gallon because of Penske’s decent MPG. This means absolutely nothing to a short- to medium-distance move. But if diesel ever goes back down (or up!), it could still make a difference there.

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One-way Drive: U-Haul Vs. Penske Long-Distance Moving

penske truck long distance move

We’ve talked a lot about local moving with Penske vs U-Haul. Now let’s dive into long-distance moving for a bit.

Long-Distance Move Mileage Fees (i.e., the Tacked-on Cost Per Mile)

If you’re driving a rental truck “one-way” (meaning you’re leaving it somewhere different than you picked it up), rental truck companies almost always charge a different mileage fee for that.

Here are Penske and U-Haul’s long-distance mileage fees:

Penske: None!

U-Haul: $0.40/mile for anything beyond the expected mileage that U-Haul declares is necessary

Does Penske truly have unlimited miles? 

Yes.

Sure, with U-Haul, there’s no limit to the number of miles you’re allowed to drive either—but you have to pay for each mile. But Penske’s huge selling point is that you get “free” unlimited miles with one-way (i.e., long-distance) rentals.

What this actually means is this: You get a quote, and that quote includes an estimated number of days you get the truck that’s based on what you told them you are gonna use the truck for. Within that time frame, you can drive as many miles as you want!

As long as you bring it back to the designated location on time, the price stays the same. Indeed, if you are on your way from Florida to California, you may want to take the scenic route and treat it like a road trip, if you’ve got the time. 

 

“When we asked (Penske) how much the day-rate was for their 22-ft. truck, they told us they had none available that day, but they could be ‘Sometimes $59.00, sometimes $69.00, sometimes $100.00.'”

 

Watch out though! For every day you go beyond the agreed-upon contract, an additional $100.00/day will be charged, so make sure in advance of your move that you can stick to the estimated number of days. With U-Haul, you’ll be charged $0.40/mile for anything beyond the expected mileage that U-Haul declares is necessary for your move.

But wait, what’s the standard cost of a long-distance Penske move?

Penske

Sure, you get unlimited miles, but what’s your total quote actually based on? We called Penske to get some information on long-distance moves, since there is virtually no pricing information on their website.

Well, the bad news is that there is no standard pricing for Penske long-distance moves; it’s based on unique factors every single time.

Besides the distance between places, Penske explained to me how big of a factor TRUCK AVAILABILITY is during your quoting.

Why does Penske’s truck availability impact a long-distance quote so much?

Penske passes along the cost of truck fleet transportation to its customers.

For instance, at the time of this writing, a trip from Tampa to L.A. in 2022 would cost over $3,000, because there are too many Penske trucks in Los Angeles right now, and they need to get moved to other areas of the country (it would cost Penske more money if they were to drive those trucks back across the country where they’re needed).

On the other hand, a trip from Tampa to Chicago would only cost about $600 (with a AAA discount) right now, because they need more trucks in Chicago.

AAA PenskeUltimately, due to supply and demand, there simply is no fixed rate that you can count on for long-distance moves. It’s all happenstance. In short, you just have to call and get a quote.

Huge Protip: Penske’s AAA discount can save you up to $200 on long-distance moves, so it’s worth it to become a AAA member if you aren’t one already because currently, this discount alone will more than cover the cost of your annual membership (which currently ranges from $59.99 to $119.99).

The Big U-Haul Vs. Penske Long-distance Cost Takeaway

You ultimately need to tally up these four main factors when deciding on taking a U-Haul or a Penske truck for a long drive:

  • Current avg. gas prices (it will change along your route)
  • MPG for your truck size of choice (Penske is almost always better than U-Haul here)
  • The type of fuel required (unleaded or diesel)
  • The estimated number of miles you’re going to drive

Only if you know that stuff will you actually know the expected costs between a long-distance Penske and U-Haul trip.


Other Major Cost Factors

There are other variables besides truck size, local vs. long distance, and gas that will impact your final Penske bill.

Penske Insurance Vs. U-Haul Insurance Breakdown

U-Haul offers two insurance packages, whereas Penske offers four levels of insurance. (We broke down U-Haul’s insurance here; see the chart below for a quick-and-dirty version.)

Do I HAVE to buy rental truck insurance?

No. Both Penske and U-Haul have an opt-out (of insurance) waiver option, which would still leave you with the aforementioned “basic insurance price,” but might also leave you feeling like you’re taking a risk.

Luckily, both companies have a few different insurance packages if you’re worried about cost. Keep in mind that depending on your specific move, some situations may actually require insurance.

 

“Penske advertises that if your truck were to suddenly break down on the side of the road, they’d come and rescue you for free.”

 

For example, if you’re an established moving company in need of an extra truck for the day, there’s a chance your business insurance doesn’t include rentals and therefore you won’t have a choice to opt-out. And in general, an individual’s auto insurance plan likely doesn’t cover moving truck rentals.

What are the different Penske and Uhaul insurance options?

The pricing below was quoted to us based on our single-day in-town move in Tampa Bay with the smallest-size box truck available.

Here are U-Haul’s insurance policies:

 U-Haul Policy  Included in Coverage Price
Safemove®  Up to $80,000, with some exclusions; covers medical/life for you and your passengers, damage to truck and belongings  $14.00
Safemove®

Plus

Above Safemove® benefits plus exclusion- free damage to truck and $1,000,000 in supplemental liability coverage $28.00

Compare these to Penske:

 Penske Policy  Included in Coverage Price
Basic Penske equipment damage $20.00
Standard Penske equipment damage, third party and injury claims (up to $1,000,000) $44.18
Value Penske equipment damage, third party and injury claims, cargo damage $49.76
Plus  Penske equipment damage, third party and injury claims, cargo damage, personal accident injury (PAI)  $53.55
Source: https://www.pensketruckrental.com/renting-from-penske/coverage/#coverage-01 

How do insurance coverage for tow dollies and car carriers work?

Penske’s Basic $20.00 plan covers “Penske equipment damage” which covers, well, Penske equipment—the towing equipment and the truck.

But, if you’re towing a car and you get the “Plus” insurance, you still aren’t fully insured because… guess what? Now you have a car trailing behind, which is neither “Penske equipment” nor traditional “cargo.”

 

“…there is no standard pricing for Penske long-distance moves; it’s based on unique factors every single time.”

 

In addition to their four listed policies, Penske also offers TWI (towing insurance). This is to insure your car for towing, and it covers any collisions resulting in damage to the towed vehicle. We were verbally told this policy would cost about $120.00 or more for a long-distance move (from one city to another). If you’re doing a local move with a same-location drop-off, TWI is just $7.50 per day.

Does “Penske Roadside Insurance” cost money?

The short answer is no. Penske advertises that if your truck were to suddenly break down on the side of the road, they’d come and rescue you for free.

But if it turns out there was damage to the truck (such as an accident), then you will probably be on the hook for damages if you didn’t opt for insurance—possibly even if it wasn’t your fault. Still, if a tire blows out or the engine overheats—things that are largely out of your control—Penske has a network of emergency roadside assistance companies and 22,000 qualified service vendors to get you back up and running.

Penske Cleaning, Damage and Other Turn-in Fees

Good news! Penske doesn’t have any standard hidden mileage or turn-in fees.

They make it pretty clear with their vehicle return checklist what you should and shouldn’t do. Out of common courtesy, we know you wouldn’t leave your fast food wrappers lying about anyway, but it’s important to know there are potential fees that may be incurred for vehicle uncleanliness. Overall, as long as the vehicle is returned clean, on time, filled with gas, and without damage, you are in the clear.

Penske Vs. U-Haul: Supplies and Equipment

penske mover dolly hand truckPenske’s business model seems to involve fewer official brick-and-mortar stores and more authorized dealers compared to U-Haul. You may have seen a few Penskes at Home Depot for instance, as Home Depot is one of Penske’s rental partners.

 

“…U-Haul doesn’t offer any military, business, student, or partnership discounts.”

 

This means if you rent your truck via Home Depot, it is there that you will probably want to rent any moving equipment such as dollies and purchase any materials such as boxes, tape, blankets, markers, etc. If you rent your truck from a different dealer (as we did), it’s up to them what they carry in terms of rentals and materials for purchase. To be sure, it will certainly vary from location to location (our location was an auto mechanic shop and carried no moving supplies), so you’ll have to check your local dealership yourself.

You can always purchase materials from the Penske website here.

U-Haul Vs. Penske Moving Labor

U-Haul, it would seem, simply refers you to moving companies using the U-Haul website. Penske, on the other hand, is partnered with a single company that connects people to people who supply the laborers in your area.

In all transparency … 

Are movers actually worth it?

If you’re on the fence about getting some help moving, here are some reasons to consider hiring movers:

  • Primarily, they really know how to pack a truck. They are essentially Tetris Masters. One efficiently packed and properly loaded truck can hold up to three improperly packed trucks. This saves trips, which in turn saves money. And try as you might, most homeowners typically don’t know how to load as efficiently as movers
  • They can make a move easy (well, easier). A good moving crew is Johnny-on-the-spot, in and out and wasting no time
  • They’re insured (if you hire qualified movers). When you think about it, you yourself aren’t insured to move your things. It’s a bit of a silly thought, but it’s true (although homeowners insurance may potentially cover damage as long as it happens on the insured property, not in transit). On the other hand, most of your items are actually covered when you hire movers in case of damage or loss

In short, movers take the stress off you and save you time and money, and who wouldn’t want that?

See prices for movers by the hour – instantly.

Read real customer reviews.

Easily book your help online.

 


Penske Vs. U-Haul: Other Things You Should Know

Believe it or not, there are still other useful things to know!

Can I pay for a Penske truck with cash?

You can pay for Penske in cash at final billing, but you’ll need a credit card to secure the reservation beforehand. You’ll pay cash at the time of pick-up, but no matter what, you need a card (the same goes for U-Haul). Also, Penske doesn’t accept cash payments over $5,000.

Deposits

Even though we were given a quote on the phone for $70, we had to put down a chunky deposit to rent a Penske truck.

In our personal experience, they put a hold on our card for $242.40. This included a deposit of $150, plus Penske’s estimate of what our costs would ultimately be. For some reason, this amounted to $92.40, which is not what our quote was originally.

However, they credited us $181.23 when we returned the truck. So the final bill came to just $61.17, which is about what we expected to pay. At the end of the day, it all squared up, but why the initial deposit was so much is not exactly clear. U-Haul requires a deposit of just $100, which, unlike Penske, includes your estimate.

Are there Penske discounts? Can you haggle with Penske?

Haggling is not for everybody, but if that’s your thing, you’re welcome to give it a try. A lot of us (myself included) just want transparency and consistency with no funny business.

Penske HireAHelper Discount
Get a discount when you use both HireAHelper and Penske (click image).

Below is a thorough list of ways to save more money with Penske discounts. Something to keep in mind is that U-Haul doesn’t offer any military, business, student, or partnership discounts.

Source: https://www.pensketruckrental.com/search/?q=discounts  

 

Are the wheel wells different in Penske trucks vs. Uhaul trucks?

Wheel well inside of a U-Haul truck

While U-Haul has wheel wells, Penske has none.

Okay, but what are wheel wells anyway, and why should you care? Wheel wells are simply where the wheels come up inside the back of the truck. Wheel wells aren’t by any means a deal breaker, but they can be a mild nuisance. They really only cause difficulty if you’ve packed the truck up to the wheel wells only to find that your next item happens to (unluckily) be a couple mattresses, a dresser, or something bulky that doesn’t quite fit in between or on top of them, creating an unlevel packing surface. It’s a bit of a first-world problem for movers. 

Are Penske trucks nicer than Uhaul trucks?

In my opinion, Penske trucks are a notch above U-Haul trucks. But I mean, a truck is a truck, so does it really matter? They both have cold A/C and AM/FM radio with aux input, and both companies keep their trucks clean and regularly maintained for the road. That’s about all most people ask for.


The Final Bill: My Total Rental Cost (Including Mileage Fees and Everything)

For two identical 8-mile moves with U-Haul and Penske, we ended up spending $44.89 on our U-Haul truck and $61.17 with our Penske truck, not including gas. This also includes the most basic insurance coverage you can get.

Note: During the time we researched this, U-Haul appeared to lower their local mileage fee from $1.19 to $0.99 for a period of time, which would have doubled the original savings for moves over 53.85 mi. with a Penske truck! Subtle shifts just like this are huge, so be sure to verify mileage fees before you choose one company over the other.

In addition to mileage fees, these ended up being the biggest factors regarding the price of a Penske rental truck move:

  • Fuel efficiency: U-Haul trucks get 10 mi. to the gallon, whereas Penske’s trucks get 13 mi. to the gallon. This means you’re saving on gas by opting for Penske, which can add up for a long-distance move
  • Insurance: Penske’s insurance options tend to be more expensive than U-Haul’s
  • Availability: When it comes to the bigger truck sizes, you may run into availability issues, which will bump up the price for Penske trucks

Bottom Line: Penske Vs. U-Haul

If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative to U-Haul, you’ll find Penske’s mileage rate and fuel efficiency competitive for in-town moves once you hit a certain mile count, and the savings only get better the more miles you rack up. However, if you’re moving something like 12 miles away and you’re making just one trip, U-Haul is probably the way to go.

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