How To Move or Ship an RV and Travel the Country (by Someone Who Did It)

Publish Date: August 11, 2021

Last Modified Date: February 11, 2022

Category: Long Distance Moving Advice, Moving Stories

Tags: Tags: buying rv, cross country driving costs, cross-crountry moving, gas prices, how to move long distance, long distance moving, move into rv, movers, moving, moving across the country, moving with an RV, moving with pets, packing and RV, parking rv, propane rv, propane tank, rv, rv costs, rv fluids, rv living, rv routes, rv safety, selling rv

If you had told me last June that I was about to be the proud owner of a 24-foot-long 1991 Winnebago Warrior, I would’ve said you were crazy.

But there I was, handing over a wad of cash to a young couple I found on Craigslist soon after realizing it would be nearly as expensive to rent an RV as to buy an RV. Suddenly, I was moments away from the start of a spur-of-the-moment, cross-country road trip.

I’m not alone in doing this. Thanks to the pandemic, Americans of all ages and budgets have gotten into #vanlife and RV living as a way to see the country without worrying about germy airports or hotel rooms. (In fact, by September 2020, RV sales had increased more than 30%, year over year!)

If you’re also a new RV owner like me, you might be wondering how to get it across the country safely and (relatively) cheaply. Well, after driving from Los Angeles to Maine and back, here’s everything I learned.

One of our first stops in Arches National Park, Utah.

Tips for Driving an RV Cross-country

1. Perform an RV-specific safety check

One of the most important things before an RV trip is making sure the RV is safe to drive long-distance. (Breaking down on the side of the highway is not fun, trust me… I know this all too well.)

But how do you know if an RV is safe to drive?

Because RVs usually aren’t driven as often as personal cars and often spend months (or years!) sitting in storage, there’s a greater opportunity for fluids to dry up or pests to chew up the wiring. And since they’re pretty much a house and car in one, there are a lot more complex components that can go haywire.

Crucial RV inspection items (and why they matter for RVs)

Start by checking all the fluid levels. The list must include oil, coolant, and power steering. This is especially vital if the vehicle has been sitting for a long time! When we picked up our RV, the oil was practically gone since it hadn’t been driven much in the last few years
Check that the brakes are working well. RVs are exceptionally heavy, so you need solid brakes in case you have to stop within a short distance
Double-check that the battery is in good condition. Batteries lose about 10% of their energy per month when sitting and not in use, aka what RVs do all the time
Every single light has to work. For any oversized vehicle, it’s really important that your headlights, brake lights, and turn signals are all working so that other drivers can see you and know your next move
Inspect the tires for wear. Since RVs aren’t usually driven as much as personal cars, the tread might be in great shape—but the sidewalls are prone to breaking down over time, especially when parked in the sun or dry climates! When we purchased our RV, the tire tread was in like-new condition, but the sidewalls were clearly cracking. When we looked up the age of tires, it turned out they were more than 12 years old! Trust me, you do NOT want a blowout. (Replace tires if they’re more than five to eight years old)

Finally, inspect all the RV-specific components to make sure they’re running and don’t have any leaks. For example, you should check the oil level on your generator and let it run for a couple of hours to prep it for use.

“To check for propane leaks, put a little soapy water around any connections and check for rising bubbles.”

On our road trip, we traveled through many hot destinations in the middle of the summer (at our final stop in Laughlin, Nevada, it reached 121 degrees during the day!), so it was crucial to have a working generator to keep the A/C unit running. Also, make sure to check underneath and around your generator for leaks, as the exhaust is toxic. And change any fluids and filters that need it.

It’s also a good idea to have a smoke detector, carbon monoxide detector, LP gas leak detector and fire extinguisher onboard.

Got a propane tank? Do these safety things

If your RV uses propane gas (LP gas) to heat the stove, hot water, fridge, etc., it’s important to check all tanks, connections, valves and the firing operation. Be sure the pressure is right and there aren’t any leaks. To check for propane leaks, put a little soapy water around any connections and check for rising bubbles. You might not realize that the tanks have an expiration date too, so check the date on the tank and have it re-certified, if necessary.

If you aren’t comfortable doing this safety check on your own, schedule an appointment with an RV mechanic (and don’t wait, because they tend to book up fast in the summer months).

2. To keep stuff from rattling, batten down the hatches

Once you get things in working order and hit the pavement, you will quickly discover everything in the RV will begin to rattle. Yes, you can fix this too!

Before ever hitting the gas, secure doors, windows, and cabinets so they are locked and remain in place while driving. If you have photo frames up on the walls or electronics sitting up on shelves or cabinets, take them down and put them in a secure spot. (No, you aren’t supposed to keep your Playstation out.)

“…keep a post-it on your dashboard with your RV’s exact dimensions so you always know if you can fit!”

Nothing is worse than hitting a bump and having a full bottle of olive oil launch from a cabinet and spill all over the floor (yes, this happened to me). Even if your cabinet doors are secured, the items inside can move around quite a bit, presenting a safety hazard when you open them. To mitigate this, buy small bins and containers to keep loose items from getting jumbled in cabinets and drawers. You can also use non-slip mats along shelves to prevent things from sliding around. Strategically placed bungee cords and velcro strips can also help.

Moving far away?

Do it cheaper.

MovingPlace can save up to 40% compared to traditional interstate moving companies. Click here to learn how.

3. Packing light makes things safer (and cheaper)

Driving a heavy vehicle like an RV is a lot different than a regular car. For one, you need to allow more time and room for braking. It also takes a while to accelerate, and you may not be able to keep up with highway speed limits (it may aggravate the drivers behind you, but safety is more important than speed. Just stay in the right lane).

“Never drive with the fresh tank completely full—aim to fill your water tank about 1/3 of the way for optimal weight.”

So don’t make maneuvering your RV tougher than necessary by packing on a lot of extra weight. A few extra bags or a couple of paddleboards might not seem like a big deal considering how much room you have, but the weight really does add up. Only bring what you really need.

Also, don’t forget about other things that can weigh your RV down, like the water tank. Never drive with the fresh tank completely full—aim to fill your water tank about 1/3 of the way for optimal weight. If you’ve been on the road for a few days, be sure to dump your gray water (used water from the sinks and shower) and black water (from the, er, bathroom) at an official dump station.

4. Crate or otherwise secure your pets while driving

Don’t let pets hang out up front while you’re on the road. (We were parked.)

Fur babies make adorable co-pilots, but it’s not safe to have them roaming free while you’re in transit. Not only can they distract you while driving, but they can get injured if you stop suddenly or get in an accident.

It’s best to keep them in a crate that’s well secured while the RV is moving. Make sure they have access to water, and plan potty stops every few hours.

5. Download an app to make RV-friendly routes

Not all roads are RV-friendly. Some roads are just plain too narrow (or windy) for oversized vehicles. And of course, you’ll want to watch out for bridges and tunnels that are too low to clear.

When we were on our return trip traveling along the East Coast, we were following Google Map directions that put us on a highway with a tunnel that had too low of clearance for us to drive through. Fortunately, there were warning signs that let us know we had to exit before it was too late. But we should have double-checked the route ahead of time to save 30 minutes of double-backing.

Personally, I learned to use the app Roadtrippers. It helped me navigate the most RV-friendly routes and avoided hazards or detours. Also, keep a post-it on your dashboard with your RV’s exact dimensions so you always know if you can fit!

6. Plan where to park ahead of time

My “mini Winnie” is just 24 feet long, which means it’s possible to park it in many regular car spots. And thanks to a huge back window, I can actually see where I’m going when backing up. You may not be so lucky.

“The first night I had my RV, I parked it on my street, not realizing that the city prohibited overnight parking for oversized vehicles. That was $75 down the drain within 12 hours of owning the darn thing, which I could have easily avoided.”

The longer the RV, the harder it is to maneuver. Some gas stations, grocery stores, city streets or even national parks may not be able to accommodate your RV if it’s too big. Figuring out where you’re allowed to stop for gas, food, and most importantly – sleep – is best done ahead of time.

Speaking of sleeping, it’s important to park in safe, RV-friendly areas when you’re done driving for the day. If you don’t want to shell out for a spot in an RV park, some good places to park overnight for free unofficially include Walmart, Cracker Barrel, and truck stops like Flying J and Love’s. But always double-check that RV parking is allowed at that particular location.

RV Parky is a great tool for finding RV parking and reading reviews from others who’ve stayed there. Other good options include All Stays and Harvest Hosts (a paid service).

Nomad View dispersed camping in Wall, South Dakota – a spot we found using RV Parky.

If you’re planning on-street parking, first make sure it’s allowed. The first night I had my RV, I parked it on my street, not realizing that the city prohibited overnight parking for oversized vehicles. That was $75 down the drain within 12 hours of owning the darn thing, which I could have easily avoided.

7. If you’re driving coast-to-coast, budget in the neighborhood of $3,000 for gas and other expenses

The not-so-great part about van life is that it’s not a cost-effective way to travel.

Why? They are really heavy, causing you to burn through a lot of gas. On our 10,000+ mile trip, we spent about $3,000 just in gas. At the time, the average price per gallon was around $3.00 (shout out to Missouri for the $1.70 per gallon gas). Plus, spending several days on the road means you’ll probably end up spending more money on food and drinks than usual. And if you want to stay in an RV park one night, the price can be just as much as a motel.

“If you’re shipping an RV less than 1,000 miles, the average cost is $1.05 per mile. However, if you need your RV shipped further, the average cost jumps to $3.32 per mile.”

Before you hit the road, make a list of all these budget categories and try to estimate how much you’ll spend on each. The trip might cost more than you realized. Set aside enough savings to cover these costs, and spend some time saving up if you need to.

8. Literally schedule time to enjoy the ride

In the span of about a month, I got to see mountain goats hop up the cliffs in Zion, stand at the base of Mount Rushmore, watch a lightning storm over the Badlands, camp alongside bison in Yellowstone, get sprayed by the Niagra Falls, listen to country music in Nashville, see Elvis’ grave in Memphis, sit on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, take my dogs swimming in the Colorado River, and so much more.

I can confirm… one of the best ways to experience the United States and its diverse landscapes and communities is by driving it cross-country.

So if you have to haul your RV across the country, why not enjoy it? Schedule time to make stops along your route, and buffer a couple of extra days into your schedule in case you want to make an unscheduled stop or spend more time in one area.

Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona. One last chance to enjoy the views before heading home!

What if I Want To Ship My RV Instead?

Fair enough. As fun as an RV road trip can be, I will admit that it’s also stressful to drive that far. Not to mention, it’s just a bit time-consuming.

Maybe you just bought a new RV that’s several hundred miles away and you want it ASAP. Or maybe you want to post up at an RV resort without making the long drive to get there, or you have a trailer-style RV but no truck to haul it yet. Whatever the case, you might consider shipping your RV instead.

It might feel counterintuitive to ship an RV cross country, but it’s really not! There are plenty of services that do just that. Here are a few ways you can ship an RV:

Towing: One option is to have the moving service use a specialized vehicle and equipment to tow the RV to its new destination. However, this may not be the best option for shipping cross-country
Flatbed: The moving service will use a large truck with a flatbed trailer to haul your RV long-distance (usually tugged along with several others)
Driving: You can hire a driver to personally transport your RV to its destination

You should take all the precautions outlined above to be sure your RV is safe to haul and nothing gets damaged. Additionally, turn off any electronics, and totally disconnect the power supply and gas lines.

How much does shipping an RV cost?

As far as the cost to ship an RV, it will depend on the size of the vehicle and how far it needs to go.

If you’re shipping an RV less than 1,000 miles, the average cost is $1.05 per mile. However, if you need your RV shipped further, the average cost jumps to $3.32 per mile. Other factors, such as gas prices and season, may increase costs.

Moving an RV long-distance isn’t for the timid. You have to be comfortable spending a lot of time behind the wheel, navigating unknown roads and towns, sleeping in a different location every night, and being flexible with your schedule.

If that doesn’t sound appealing to you, it’s okay; you can pay someone else to do it, as long as you can come up with the cash. For my final tip, ask professional long-distance movers what they charge for car shipping—it could save you a lot of money!

2021 Review: My Move With a Penske® Truck

Author: Alexis Rhiannon

Publish Date: April 15, 2021

Last Modified Date: September 23, 2021

Category: Local Moving, Long Distance Moving Advice, Moving Trucks

Tags: Tags: cross-country move, hireahelper, local move, long distance moving, long distance moving prices, movers, moving, moving truck, moving with penske, moving with truck rental, penske, penske cost, penske discount, penske prices, truck rental companies

When it comes to moving truck rental companies, your cup runneth over in terms of choice. You’re probably looking for any little detail to help one option stand out from the rest, so I’m going to tell you my experience moving with Penske, a national truck rental company that supports commercial, personal, local, and long-distance moves.

How does getting a Penske truck work for a local move?

My journey began on the company’s website—specifically, its personal rental page and not the commercial one.

They have this page they call the Penske’s Truck Wizard tool, which I used to determine which size vehicle I should rent. I clicked “Get a Quote” and then added my desired dates and my pick-up and drop-off location information.

The first time I moved, I was making a local move within my state, so I selected the same spot for both to keep costs down: Hackensack, New Jersey.

Then you pick the day

I chose a weekend for vehicle pick-up. Penske automatically determined the drop-off date based on my move details, inviting me to add up rental supplies and spring for insurance. Thankfully, I was also chatting online with a Penske customer service representative during this process (click the “live chat” button on Penske’s site to be connected).

My personal estimate initially suggested I would pay $79 per day for the truck rental and $0.99 per mile for my move, but my rep asked if I wanted to pay a lower rate. Yes, please!

“The other major difference for long-distance moves with a Penske truck is that you’ll be offered free unlimited mileage.”

They were able to knock down the price to $70 per day for the truck rental and $0.87 per mile driven, with the caveat that the offer was good only during the duration of our conversation. If I’d let it slip through my fingers, there was no guarantee I’d be able to get that same price again. Luckily, I sprang for their offer over the phone.

Penske guarantees your reservation

Once I’d accepted my quote, Penske guaranteed my reservation details. In case you haven’t used a ton of other moving truck companies before, you should know that this is huge; U-Haul, for example, can change the details out from under you at will, so it’s a huge perk that Penske sets your deets in stone. (The only exception is for bookings made less than 24 hours in advance, in which case Penske might switch you to a larger truck or alternative pick-up location.)

Mileage fees (only for local moves)

Another fine print to be aware of is that the calculated mileage ratings listed on your estimate are exactly that: an estimate. Penske notes that fuel mileage may vary depending on land, terrain, weather, and driving speed, so be sure to leave some wiggle room in your budget.

“And because I reserved through HireAHelper, I got an additional discount of $193.77.”

If you have to tack on extra days before truck pick-up, you’ll be charged $50, while if you add on after pick-up, the fee will increase to $100. And no, you don’t get a refund if you return the truck early, sorry.

How does Penske work for a long-distance move?

If you’re scheduling a long-distance or “one-way” move, as they often call it, the process will be similar to the way things work locally:

Head to the website for a quote
Chat with a representative to see if you can get that quote lowered
Sign up for the appropriately sized truck

For a long-distance move, you’ll likely be picking up and dropping off your truck in two different locations, which Penske, like most moving truck companies, charges more for.

The other major difference for long-distance moves with a Penske truck is that you’ll be offered free unlimited mileage. That’s instead of the initial $0.99 quote I got for my local move estimate. If you want to apply that discount toward your move immediately, you can search HireAHelper to see if it’s feasible to hire a team of movers on one or both ends. (Spoiler alert: it probably is.)

How much does Penske cost?

As you might expect, prices will vary based on truck size, distance traveled, and the length of time you have the vehicle. But what you might not expect are the many ways to slash your bottom line. Penske prides itself on its discounts and usually has some sort of seasonal offer going on.

Here are the basic savings available year-round:

Discount For	Discount Amount
US military	10% off all truck rentals
Students	10% off all truck rentals
AAA	12% off all truck rentals

$129.44 for a local move — three bedrooms || 5 miles

I received this quote in February of 2021. Even before I received any discount, my local move was looking quite affordable. A 26-foot rental truck, with enough space to move a three-bedroom home plus basement and garage from Fort Lee to Ridgefield Park within New Jersey, came to $129.44 with the following breakdown:

Daily fee: $79.99
Mileage: $4.95 ($0.99/mile x five miles)
Environmental fee: $2
Vehicle licensing recovery fee: $2.50
Limited Damage Waiver: $40

TOTAL: $129.44

$2,089.05 for a long-distance move — three bedrooms || 1,200 miles

I received this quote in March of 2021. To move that same three-bedroom house from northern New Jersey to central Florida, I was charged $2,089.05, which included:

Truck rental: $1,614.75 for the use of a 26-foot truck over six days
Free unlimited mileage
Furniture pads: $30 (two dozen at $15 per dozen)
Hand trucks: $40 (two at $20 each)
Protection plans: $232.50 (Limited Damage Waiver for $132 and supplemental liability for $100.50)
Sales tax: $162.80
Environmental fee: $9

TOTAL: $2,089.05

These costs put Penske right in line with those offered by Budget® and U-Haul®, but make sure to talk to an agent over the phone like I did, because you never know what cost-cutting promos you might qualify for.

The biggest perk for Penske

The first major thing is that a long-distance move gives you unlimited miles. This is massive value if you’re going across the country!

Plus, I don’t know about you, but since the average day doesn’t find me behind the wheel of a 26-foot truck, I was endlessly appreciative of everything offered in Penske’s vehicles. We’re talking safety features like:

Anti-lock brakes
Dual-faced mirrors
Free roadside assistance
Convenience stuff like an easy-to-operate loading ramp with a 1,000-pound capacity and a translucent roof with interior lighting so I could load and unload the truck in the dark.

My anxiety also really appreciated knowing that the average truck was less than two years old and that I could test drive one before pick-up, a perk that I wish more rental truck companies offered. (Just contact the district office in your area if you want to do the same.)

Potential downsides of using Penske

This first one is kind of a double-edged sword: Your truck may be more reliable than other rental companies, but the trade-off is that Penske prices might look higher than those offered by other rental trucks—at least at first glance. But ultimately, prices will vary based on your approach and how adept you are at sniffing out discounts.

Some ways to shrink your bottom line are by reserving through the website, a step that saved me $215.30! And because I reserved through HireAHelper, I got an additional discount of $193.77.

Along the same lines, I highly recommend being on the lookout for hidden fees, which can be as hard to pin down as the secret discounts. For example, it was only after multiple questions about the supposedly “nonexistent cancellation fees” they advertised. I was finally told that I would, in fact, be fined $100 if I made changes to my reservation within 48 hours of pickup. Dumb.

Why should you choose Penske over other truck rental companies?

For me, it came down to three major factors that helped mitigate the stress surrounding my move:

The free unlimited mileage on long-distance moves (this is huge)
The emphasis on safety in the vehicles themselves
The fact that roadside assistance included with every order, totally free of charge

Ultimately, if you’re someone with safety concerns who’s willing to snuffle around for a while in search of the lowest quote, I definitely recommend Penske. The sheer amount of opportunities to negotiate your price down are frankly unmatched in competitors, and the ease of using the website and online chat functions really set the company apart.

To read our full 2021 Penske truck rental review, check out Moving101’s Penske page. And, for more information on long distance movers, check out our list of verified long distance moving companies.

How To Move Plants Long Distance

Author: Casey Bond

Publish Date: March 25, 2021

Last Modified Date: February 5, 2024

Category: Green Moving, Long Distance Moving Advice

Tags: Tags: california, cross-country move, Florida, hireahelper, how do I move my plants, how to move plants across the country, how to move plants cross country, how to move plants long distance, how to move plants long distances, long distance move, long distance moving, long distances, movers, moving, moving my plants, moving plants, plant laws, plants, texas, transporting plants

Moving long distance has a lot of moving pieces, but can one of those pieces be your garden? If you have a beloved monstera deliciosa or English rose garden that needs to be moved from point A to point B, we have some options for you and your green friends.

Is Moving Plants Long-Distance Possible?

It’s important to know that most moving truck and shipping container companies don’t allow the transport of plants. Many of these companies won’t move plants due to certain state laws and possible liability.

And don’t think about hiding your plants among your other belongings, either. Doing so could void your contract with the long distance movers and would invalidate any protections if the plants cause a mess that damages your belongings.

That said, it may still be possible to move your plants across the country. You just have to really, really want it.

First, check state laws to see if you can bring your plants at all (seriously)

Moving plants across state lines can be a bit tricky.

States that rely heavily on agriculture – including California, Texas, and Florida – are very wary of allowing in any pests or invasive species of plants that could destroy crops. Several have strict regulations around bringing in plants from out of state. Unfortunately, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) even bans the transport of some plants altogether.

If you really want to get into the weeds (ha), you can check out the USDA’s full list of regulated plants within all 50 states and U.S. territories.

Because the rules for each state are different, you’ll need to research which states you’re traveling through and ensure that you don’t risk having your plants confiscated at border checkpoints. Some states allow you to bring in plants that exclusively exist indoors, but may require you to re-pot them with sterile soil before moving. Others may require a certificate of inspection, or have you quarantine your plants before bringing them home.

No proud plant parent wants to say goodbye to their collection, but that may be what you have to do. In that case, spend some time finding them a good home by donating them to friends and family, users on plantswap.org, or finding buyers on sites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace.

If you’re still committed (and legally able), pick how you want to transport your plants

Again, most moving companies don’t transport plants (but definitely ask ahead of time). You’re likely to have to use your own vehicle, whether it’s your personal car or a rental truck. Don’t forget your spray bottle of water!

Cars

It may go without saying, but don’t pack your plants away in some box. Instead, you should pack your plants so you can give them plenty of room and attention. Plants that are more fragile or sensitive to temperature should go in the front where there is access to A/C or heat and the driver can keep an eye on them. Other plants can be packed in the backseat and even secured with seat belts. (If you have a lot of plants, you may need to literally keep an inventory.)

If possible, don’t pack plants in the trunk, since the airflow is limited, and avoid open vehicles like the bed of a pickup truck (unless it’s covered) since the wind can damage plants in transit.

“Because the rules for each state are different, you’ll need to research which states you’re traveling through and ensure that you don’t risk having your plants confiscated.”

Rental trucks

For the same reason, it’s best to transport plants in the front cabin of a rental truck, due to sunlight and airflow concerns (especially since you’re probably driving a long way). Plus, remember that U-Haul, Penske, and Budget Truck Rental have cleaning fees if your plants leave a mess. (U-Haul’s says their cleaning fee is $25, while Budget simply claims a “reasonable fee“.)

It’s worth noting rental companies like U-Haul can lend you plastic moving bins for dirty and fragile things like plants. It’s an upsell if you don’t have your own plastic bin to use though. U-Haul claims their “Ready-To-Go” boxes begin at “12 boxes for a week (for) as low as $18”.

Other moving alternatives such as Moving Place can create a custom made moving plan that includes the right transportation method for your plants. All you have to do is make sure they are packed properly and they will drive them safely to their new home.

Can’t drive? Try the post office

That said, if it’s not possible to personally drive your plants to your new destination, you’re not out of luck.

The second best option when moving plants across the country, believe it or not, is to mail them. It’s not ideal, since you can’t directly control the care with which they’re handled, or allow them to get water and sunlight while in transport. That means you should choose a fast shipping option and prepare to pay a good chunk of change for it. And be sure your plants don’t arrive before you do! (Read more on how to mail plants below.)

Prep your plants for the move

Once you’ve nailed down the transportation method for your plants, you gotta prep them for moving.

Moving will undoubtedly be stressful for your plants. You want to make sure they’re in the best shape possible before you uproot them. Getting rid of any dead leaves or pests will ensure they’re happy and primed for growth when you get to your new home.

With that in mind, now let’s talk about how to best physically move your plants.

Moving far away?

Do it cheaper.

HireAHelper.com can save up to 40%, compared to traditional interstate moving companies. Click here to learn how.

How To Move Your Plants and Garden

There are some special considerations for plants moving long distances.

It’s a good idea to water your plants well a couple of days before the move, not right before you pack them up. A soggy potted plant is heavy and could leak all over your belongings while in transit. Not to mention, overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems. Make sure your plants are well hydrated ahead of time and that the soil is just moist enough when it’s time to make your trek across the country.

How to Move Plants in Pots

Always use plastic pots to ship plants long distance.

If you have potted houseplants that need to be moved long-distance, you’ll want to take a few steps to ensure that the pots don’t get broken and the plants themselves survive the trip.

For smaller plants, you can nestle them in a box in their original containers. Use crumpled paper, dividers, or bubble wrap to ensure they don’t clink together or move around. Wine shipping boxes are great for this purpose. Just be sure to leave the top open so they get adequate airflow.

For larger plants, it’s best if you can transfer them to plastic pots. You’ll not only save yourself some sore muscles from lugging heavy pots around, but ensure that your delicate pieces don’t get broken in the move. Alternatively, you can place your plants in a more eco-friendly planter if you’d like to avoid plastic. It’s also a good idea to cover the top of the planter with cardboard or a bag to prevent the soil from spilling when things get jostled around.

Be sure to transfer your plants a couple weeks ahead of time. You’ll want to give them enough time to adjust to their temporary housing and ensure the moisture level is just right so they’re not stressed before you even begin the move.

How to Send Plants in the Mail

polymer — Polymer crystals mixed with a little water will help release water a little bit at a time.

If you’re shipping your plants, it’s important to make sure they’re well packed and protected from damage.

In this case, it’s best if there is no pot involved. Instead, trim down the roots, wrap them with a few wet paper towels, and then wrap that with a plastic bag and place in a box. If it’s going to be a longer trip, add a couple of teaspoons of polymer moisture crystals to water and apply this slurry to the roots before wrapping it in plastic. You can also loosely roll the plant in newspaper before packing it to help protect the stems and leaves.

The box you choose should be sturdy, but not too roomy, as you don’t want the plant to bounce around inside. In fact, every empty space around the plant should be filled with newspaper and bubble wrap to ensure it stays secure. You can also put a “fragile,” “live plant,” or “this end up” label on the box (even better, all three) so handlers know to be careful.

Finally, mail it at the beginning of the week. Much of the USPS does not run on the weekend, increasing the odds your plant sits in a dark room for a couple of days. Additionally, check the weather for the day of your box’s arrival so your beloved plant neither freezes nor wilts to death. And it may go without saying, but if you’re going through this much trouble to transport your plant, you probably want to spring for the quickest delivery option!

Finally, be sure you aren’t violating any restrictions on shipping plants in the mail.

Can I move my garden locally?

What if you have a prized garden that you don’t want to just abandon? Though there are a few more steps involved than moving potted houseplants, it is possible to move plants from the ground to somewhere relatively nearby.

The time of year you choose to move is important. Perennials, especially, need to be moved during the spring or fall when they won’t be exposed to harsh temperatures.

You’ll actually want to soak them really well the night before you move them. Though it’s not a great idea to water houseplants right before moving them, the opposite is true with in-ground plants.

When digging up your plant, attempt to get as much of the root as possible. Do this by digging a ring around the base of the plant, ensuring that you don’t cut into the roots. For larger plants, this may require digging at least six inches into the ground. Don’t shake off the extra soil attached to the root ball—this will offer extra protection during the move.

Check out our infographic for more details.

Regardless of how you transport your plants, you’ll want to get them into their new homes right away to minimize stress and damage. Have your pots unpacked and ready to go, and your garden dug up and labeled so you know where everything should be replanted. With a little extra TLC, your plants should adjust to their new surroundings in no time.

2020 Study: Where Are Americans From, State by State, City by City?

Author: Volodymyr Kupriyanov

Publish Date: December 6, 2020

Last Modified Date: September 16, 2021

Category: Moving Advice

Tags: Tags: born and raised, california, la, long distance moving, los angeles, michigan, movers, moving, new york, nyc, out of state, population, texas, us, us born

Key findings:

Homebodies of Michigan: 77% of people living in Michigan were born there
Only 25% of people living in Nevada were born in Nevada, 19% were born in California
14% of the Oregonian population are actually from California
People born in New York state account for 8% of Florida’s population
A quarter (25%) of Miami residents are from Cuba
52% of New Yorkers were born outside the state of New York
28% of Miami residents who were born elsewhere are under 24

Americans move around a lot. Less than in years and decades, as we’ve noted in our studies, but millions of Americans move every year.

Whether it’s chasing dreams in New York City or LA, chasing the sun in Phoenix or Miami, or craving a change of pace in Seattle or Austin – many of us end up living in places far from places where we were born.

In this post, we look at the U.S. states and cities to see where their residents are from. Which cities have the most diverse populations? Which states the most residents from neighboring states, and which are top destinations for expats from overseas?

Read on below to find out.

Born and Raised: Proud ‘Michiganers’ and More

Before we get into the cities, let’s have a quick look at the states. For most states, it is true that the lion’s share of the population was born in that state. The state that houses the highest percentage of its original residents is Michigan, with 77%. The lowest? It’s Nevada, where only 25% of the current population were born in Nevada.

Interestingly enough, it’s these states in the Midwest and around the Great Lakes that have the highest proportion of people born in them who still live there. Ohio, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin—over 70% of people living in these states never left them.

The curious exception to this rule is Louisiana, where only 24% of the population were born outside the Bayou State.

New Yorkers in California, Californians in Texas

Things get more interesting when we look at the people born outside the states they live in.

California might be a dream destination for many people in the U.S. and beyond, but boy do Californians get around. Not only were 19% of Nevada’s residents born in the Golden State, so were 14% inside Oregon, 10% in Idaho, and 9% in the state of Washington. Even 3% of all Texans were born in California.

“…it’s these states in the Midwest and around the Great Lakes that have the highest proportion of people born in them who still live there: Ohio, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin—over 70% of people living in these states never left them.”

But it’s not just Californians that like to settle outside their home state. New Yorkers have been up and down the East Coast: 11% of people in the neighboring New Jersey were born in the Empire State, as were 10% of those living in Connecticut, 8% of those in Florida. Enough New Yorkers have made it to the West Coast that 2% of California’s population are from New York, making it the largest out-of-state diaspora in the state.

Elsewhere, born-and-bred Texans, regardless of whether they were born in Dallas or San Antonio, have a strong presence in the four states Texas borders, just like those from the state of Illinois, who successfully settled just outside the border of their own state.

Breaking Down Cities: Where Are New Yorkers Actually From?

Now that we’ve looked at the states, let’s turn to the cities. We looked at ten of the biggest cities across the country to get a sense of just how many people from all over the country and the world they bring together.

Looking at the most obvious example of a global metropolis that is New York City, you might be surprised to find out that 48% of people living in NYC are from the state of New York, with the total share of U.S.-born population at 59%.

About 15% of New York City residents are from other countries in North America—DR and Jamaica being top countries representing the regions, while 12% are from Asia with 4.4% from China.

Just under 7% of New Yorkers were born in Europe, and there’s a clear Slavic bias there with three of the top four countries being Russia, Ukraine, and Poland.

We Love LA!

Across the country on the West Coast, the picture for Los Angeles is both different and similar to that of NYC. The overwhelming majority of the LA residents are American-born (62%), with 45% being born in the Golden State itself.

However, the breakdown of overseas residents is entirely different. Where New York is dominated by the Dominican Republic and Jamaica, more people in LA hail from Mexico and El Salvador. Where most Asian-born New Yorkers are from China, in Los Angeles, they originate from the Philippines and Korea.

The share of European expats in LA is half that of New York City – only 3.5% – with the biggest diaspora hailing from Armenia.

Miami, the Melting Pot City

The one big city with a starkly different picture of its population is Miami, FL. Not only do as many as 44% of its residents come from abroad, a quarter of them (25%) hail from Cuba.

“The state that houses the highest percentage of its original residents is Michigan, with 77%. The lowest? It’s Nevada, where only 25% of the current population were born in Nevada.”

Slightly more (28%) were born in Florida itself, with a share of all American-born residents at 41%. Where South American-born residents were much more of a rarity in the likes of NYC and LA, as many as one in ten people in Miami were born on that continent.

Expats from Europe make up 3% of Miami’s population, but note that most Europeans in Miami are from Spain. Asian-born residents barely register 1%.

Check our interactive chart below to find out how the population of other big US cities breaks down by their place of birth.

What Age to Move

Miami’s Cuban heritage isn’t the only thing that makes it stand out. Unlike many of the biggest cities in the United States, over a quarter of people moving there (28%) are in their teens and early twenties.

For cities like Boston, DC, and Philadelphia, the majority of people (over 50%) who were born elsewhere are Millennials, i.e., those who in 2020 are between the ages of 29 and 34.

Surprisingly enough, out-of-state movers to NYC, San Francisco, LA are overwhelmingly in their forties and early fifties.

Nearly 93% of people who moved to LA from outside of California were Gen X’ers, as are 83% of people in San Francisco. For New York City, Gen X’ers accounted for almost two-thirds (65%) of all residents born out-of-state.

These stats mean one of two things: either people who have moved to these cities moved a long time ago, or that people are moving to these cities when they’re much older and have the means to do it. Either way, it’s either a sign of trends changing or these big cities becoming increasingly unaffordable for young people to move into.

For better or for worse, most people across the United States tend to stay put and never leave their state. However, for all those homebodies, there are plenty of those who seek their fortunes elsewhere: all those New Yorkers in California, Cubans in Miami, Russians in New York City, and Californians in Texas.

Methodology

All the percentages, graphs, maps, and visualizations are based on the data from the American Community Survey – a Census Bureau survey reaching around 170,000 Americans each year – for the years 2014 through 2019 (latest year available) detailing the place of birth and the place of residence of survey participants.

Illustrations by Daniel Fishel

2021 Long Distance Moving Review: Should I Move With northAmerican?

Author: Francesca Di Meglio

Publish Date: November 30, 2020

Last Modified Date: September 21, 2021

Category: Long Distance Moving Advice

Tags: Tags: full service moving, insterstate movers, interstate moving, long distance moving, movers, moving, north american, north american moving services, north american van line, north american vans, northamerican

North American Moving Services, also known as “northAmerican” or “North American Van Lines“, is a full-service moving company with experience and a breadth of services, but it also offers the personal touches and ability to negotiate, typical of a small business.

Like its competitors, Mayflower and Allied, it now provides a pick-and-choose menu of options to help you plan your long distance move. Yet overall, it remains known for its full-service package. The crew packs your stuff, dismantles furniture, puts it on the truck, takes it to your final destination, puts back together furniture, and unloads your boxes into the appropriate rooms in your new home. Phew! Not too shabby! (Have you read our picks for best moving companies?)

Does North American Van Lines operate during COVID?

North American Van Lines is not only operating during the coronavirus crisis, it is busy, even in the traditionally slower winter months. In fact, you’ll have to call as early as possible to get on the schedule for both your estimate and move. In the meantime, you can learn about the new safety precautions North American has put in place to respond to the coronavirus pandemic. For instance, at this time, you can only get an estimate through online, video, and virtual estimates to ensure proper social distancing.

PROS

Get a lower price with a little conversation and flexibility
88 years of experience and a reputation of reliability
Widespread availability
Great customer service

CONS

You can still end up with empty pockets
Getting a base estimate is a hassle
Experience varies by location

Read on to learn more about the pros and cons of North American interstate moving services, based on my first-hand experience.

What Types of Moves Does North American Van Lines Do?

- Household Moving
- Corporate Relocation
- International Moving
- Moving Resources
- Moving Services
- Local Moves
- Interstate Moves

Moving far away?

Do it cheaper.

HireAHelper.com can save you up to 40%, compared to traditional interstate van lines.

Compare our long distance moving company options.

What Other Services Besides Moving Does North American Van Lines Do?

Here’s the whole menu, from their website:

Local, Interstate, and International Moving
Full-Service Packing
Fragile-Only Packing
Assistance with Self-Packing (such as determining quantity and type of boxes and supplies)
Boxes and Moving Supplies
Appliance Disconnection and Reconnection
Loading and Unloading
Storage
Auto Transport
Custom Crates
Crane Vans for Large Items
Transportation and Shipment Tracking

You can pick and choose from these options to fit your needs and budget. (You might not need services like appliance disconnection and reconnection.) But the company is best known for its full-service package, which also includes the packing, loading, unloading, and transportation.

What Insurance Does North American Offer?

For the protection of your stuff, North American has four options:

Maximum Value Protection (MVP) with $0 deductible
MVP with $250 deductible
MVP with $500 deductible
Basic Coverage

Your homeowner’s or rental insurance may cover your move, but if not, you can turn to one of the options offered by North American. The basic coverage is only for $0.60 per pound per article if something is lost or damaged while moving. This means you could get a bad deal if say, something expensive like a personal computer gets broken in transit. With full MVP, anything lost or destroyed would be repaired or replaced.

“For an interstate move of a 3-bedroom home in early December with all (my) stuff, my cost was $8,700…”

If that’s not possible – like if Grandma’s serving platter is no longer for sale anywhere – you’d get a cash settlement for the current market replacement value. “The cost of full value may be subject to various deductible levels of liability that may reduce your cost,” according to the website. You can ask your moving coordinator for more specifics.

How Much Does North American Cost?

“northAmerican Moving Services” encompasses all their different offerings

Interstate or long-distance moves tend to cost between $2,000 and $5,000 per move, according to HomeAdvisor.com, and that’s roughly what you can expect to pay. North American’s prices are on par with competitors, which means its full-service package can be break-the-bank expensive.

Here’s what is taken into consideration when you are given an estimate:

Distance of your move – How far does the driver have to go to get your stuff to the final destination?
Amount of packing – How much stuff will the staff have to box for you? How much loading and unloading will staff have to do at both destinations?
Weight of your stuff – How much will the entire load weigh?
Miscellaneous – Will you need add-ons like auto transport? Will you need van transport because a big truck can’t be parked on your street?
Insurance coverage – Additional coverage will cost you more.
When you are moving – A move in the summer, which is peak season, is going to cost more than a move in the winter, which is usually slow for those in the moving industry.

Quotes will be different based on the pricing set by your local agent, and the size (weight) and distance of your move. Full-package estimates from northAmerican will always include:

Labor and Transportation
Packing
Valuation
Miscellaneous

What’s “miscellaneous”? It refers to a lot of things, including upsells and fees. You can control what kinds of miscellaneous services or overcharges fall into that category if you plan well.

Ultimately, flexibility regarding when you move and a willingness to take on some of the chores yourself could significantly bring down the price. In addition, should your stuff weigh less than the estimate, northAmerican van line will go with the lowest cost.

How My North American Van Lines Estimate Went

To minimize the spread of the coronavirus, I signed up for a virtual home tour with my local North American agent, which is called Beltmann Relocation Group and is the company’s largest location.

Their pledge is to “Be the customer by striving to understand customer expectations and meeting them consistently.” I definitely got the sense that the rep with whom I spoke was trying to fulfill the promise. He was courteous, provided a detailed explanation of the estimate, and tried to help me get a lower price.

“Ultimately, flexibility regarding when you move and a willingness to take on some of the chores yourself could significantly bring down the price.”

We conducted the tour over What’sApp Duo, but we could have done it on Zoom (It’ll be up to you). I could have also provided a video if a live online call was not possible.

Quickly, we got into the weeds…literally. I brought my phone outside to my front yard to show him the entrance and parking area. Knowing that my town is very much a city, he was simply confirming that parking would be a problem. He’s right, but he had solutions for getting around it (a smaller truck that would make more trips) and had experience with this kind of situation. He also took note of the size of the home. I was able to get a price – and less sticker shock – by the call’s end.

My own northAmerican estimates for full-service packages included:

Weight of the load
Packing and unpacking
Assembly and disassembly of furniture
Loading and unloading
Transportation
Liability coverage (MVP with $0 deductible) with maximum protection of $50,000
Miscellaneous

For an interstate move of a 3-bedroom home in early December with all that stuff, my cost was $8,700, which is more or less in line with their competitor’s prices.

The rep brought the cost down by $400 by offering me a limited-time discount. If I was willing to move in January instead, I could bring down the cost another $300, so my grand total would be about $8,000. If I opted for the basic coverage instead of the MVP with $0 deductible that the rep automatically includes in the estimate, then I would bring down the cost to about $7,960. This was all based on transporting 8,000 pounds of stuff.

The ability to bring down the cost that much was a huge relief. I know it’s still a lot of money, but it’s less than it could have been and less than some competitors. Also, I still would be doing little more than overseeing the move and labeling boxes. That’s not too shabby if you ask me.

Pros of Moving with North American

Some northAmerican vans have doors on the back and the side. beltmann.com

They give you room to bring down the cost of your move.

The representative who conducted the home tour was helpful and willing to work with me to reduce the price. He kept saying he wanted to help and win my business. Then, he actually unlocked a discount to decrease the price by $400! With added flexibility you can also save. Ask and ye shall receive, especially if you can move at a different time and there are deals available.

With 500 locations (!), you can probably find an agent near both destinations.

North American has widespread reach, so you should be able to find an agent near your starting and ending points.

Great customer service.

Moving is not always pleasant. But when you can rely on the customer service representatives and the staff with whom you are working, it eases some of the tension. My rep helped me lower the cost and was willing to go the extra mile to win my business. He also answered all my questions and tried to address any concerns that I had. That is a great way to get an edge on the competition.

Cons of Moving with North American

You might break the bank.

No matter how you look at it, full-service moving packages are expensive. Even the cheapest route offered by North American has me paying in the neighborhood of $8,000. That’s super expensive. If you have the money, however, it’s a worthy luxury. After all, you save your back and your heart by reducing stress levels.

The timeline to get an estimate is a turn-off.

You have to jump through hoops with scheduling a date for a home tour and then go through with it. Then, you sometimes even have to wait for the written estimate to be certain of the breakdown. In a world where we’ve become used to immediate, easy answers, this is a hard pill to swallow.

Experience varies by location

You will have to do your homework. Each North American location is run by a different company. With agents all over the country, you will find the experience will vary from place to place. Check out reviews about your local agent to find out what your experience might be like.

Should You Choose North American to Move?

A full-service move is a big investment. It’s worth it if you can afford it. After all, who wants to lose days of their lives packing and unpacking? And North American offers competitive prices for full-service packages.

Are they better than other long distance movers? You have to consider the cost and the drive of the local North American agent working with you. In my case, the agent was the largest among North American’s roster, which made them skillful at dealing with multiple clients at a time. Your (literal) mileage may vary.

You also need to be about six weeks away from your move date to consider hiring North American right now because the company is super busy. You will need time both for getting an estimate and scheduling your actual move.

Obviously, choosing one company over another is a personal decision. But if you can afford a full-service move and have a reputable North American agent to work with, they may be willing to undercut other van line quotes in your areas.

For more info, check out Moving101 and our picks of long distance moving companies.

2021 Long Distance Movers Review: Should I Move With Mayflower?

Author: Francesca Di Meglio

Publish Date: October 13, 2020

Last Modified Date: September 17, 2021

Category: Freight Trailer Moving

Tags: Tags: full service, full service movers, full service moving, hireahelper, long distance move, long distance moving, mayflower, movers, moving, uhaul

Mayflower Transit is among the big long distance moving companies, which means it does everything from packing and unpacking your stuff, to transporting it to and from your destinations. If you hire Mayflower, you serve as a manager of the process without having to do any of the back-breaking work.

But should you go with Mayflower? Here’s my review.

Does Mayflower Operate During COVID?

This company views itself as an essential service, so it is operating during the coronavirus crisis with a new set of safety precautions derived by government and public health agency guidelines. Among the measures being taken are using a virtual survey tool rather than conducting in-home estimates, disinfecting moving equipment and your stuff, wearing gloves and masks, and making sure those involved are free of COVID-19 symptoms. This is not a guarantee they would have a negative test, but it reduces risk to some extent.

What Does Mayflower Offer?

Types of Moves

Local
Long-Distance
International
Military
Corporate
Small Moves

Quotes will vary and depend on the size of your home and the distance to your next residence. But all full-package quotes include:

Your personal move coordinator
Full Value Protection (unless waived)
Standard transport of appliances (service/disconnect/connect not included)
Qualified drivers and equipment
Load, transport, and unload of household belongings
Disassembly and reassembly of bed frames
Standard furniture placement

Add-ons that will increase your quote and ultimate payment include:

Storage
Debris Removal

You don’t need to get this extra stuff, though. You can bring down the cost of the full-service move by customizing your packing and unpacking options. Some people hire local movers for partial packing or unpacking for cheaper, instead of having the company staff do it all.

Service Packages

For the add-ons and protection of your stuff, Mayflower has three basic full-service packages, known as:

Essentials ($195)
Plus 1 ($395), and
Plus 2 ($595)

Their “Plus 1” and “Plus 2” offer any one or two of the following:

Services Offered

Customized full-service options
Packing and unpacking
In-transit and permanent storage
Debris removal
PC and network disassembly and setup
Home theater stand mount setup
Home theater wall mount disassembly
Move-out cleaning service
Specialty items moving
Electronics installation
Car shipping
Crating

Now, please recognize that you’re not going to be paying a mere $195 for your move if you choose the Essentials package. This price is on top of the “base price” – your quote, essentially – which includes all the basic services of the full-package move, and is based on the size and distance of your move.

“…my estimate was about $10,000.”

Essentials is the most affordable and serves as the base package. It includes additional valuation protection, gold standard protection, claim assistance, and identity theft protection. The Plus 1 and Plus 2 packages offer all those services and one convenience service, such as PC network setup, or two convenience services, such as PC network setup and destination debris pickup respectively.

How much does Mayflower Moving cost?

Full-service moves are notoriously break-the-bank expensive, and Mayflower Transit is no exception. The average long-distance move costs $5,000, according to ConsumerAffairs.com. All packages include claim assistance, loading and unloading, full-value protection, and an assigned moving coordinator. You can also pay more to get other services added (more below).

How do I know how much my Mayflower quote will be?

To get a quote, you must get a visual estimate, which means someone representing Mayflower or one of its local affiliates will walk through your home (either in real life or virtually) to see and measure what will be moved. While this provides a more accurate price, it makes the process inconvenient when you want to quickly compare options.

Here’s what is taken into consideration when Mayflower gives you a price:

Date of your move – The day of the week and time of year can change the price
Seasonality – Summer tends to be more expensive because that is when many people decide to move. Winter is cheaper
Distance of your move – How far will the driver have to travel to get your stuff from point A to point B
Size of your home – This is a good indication of how much stuff you’ll have to have transported
Weight/volume of your belongings – The size and heft of your stuff plays a big role in determining the price of a full-service move

How My Estimate Went

Before the pandemic (and maybe in the future), a representative would walk you through your home to survey the items that you wanted to move. For example, I had some things I planned on selling at a yard sale, a few things that belonged to family members, and stuff I was going to toss (hello, baby toys for my 8-year-old son). Lately though, you’ll be using your smartphone to conduct the home survey that will result in the estimate of the weight of your personal belongings.

The estimate includes:

Your personal move coordinator
Load, transport, and unload of household belongings
Full Value Protection (unless waived)
Disassembly and reassembly of standard bed frames
Standard transport of appliances (service/disconnect/connect not included)
Standard furniture placement
Qualified drivers and equipment

Once the rep had a clear picture of what Mayflower would have to move, he used a formula to determine the weight of my goods. Then, he considered services, add-ons, and the distance (I was moving a 3-bedroom home from Fort Lee, New Jersey to Kissimmee, Florida) to determine my estimate was about $10,000. The average cost of a move is $5,000 and long-distance moves of bigger homes obviously can cost even more.

The one thing to keep in mind is that you cannot get a ballpark figure to compare prices with other companies. But even in the chat, the representative was adamant that estimates are only given after getting a visual of the stuff you’ll be moving.

“…customization allows you some control over the final price, but it all depends on the weight of your stuff and the distance you’re moving.”

Pros of Moving with Mayflower Transit

Mayflower Transit is an industry veteran.

This company is an elder of the moving industry. As a result, it has garnered years of experience transporting people’s stuff – all sorts of stuff – from state to state and even country to country. They also have a massive infrastructure that local moving companies could never compete with. Mayflower’s history gives customers confidence. After all, in an industry rife with fly-by-night organizations, Mayflower is a standout for its nearly century long endurance.

You can take advantage of add-ons.

As is the case with any full-service moving company, Mayflower will take care of every detail of your move while you serve as a supervisor. But they will go above and beyond if you want to pay extra. You can get debris removal or storage, for instance. You can even have Mayflower set up your internet at the new place. You truly won’t have to lift a finger if you’re willing to pay.

No matter where you live, you’re likely to find Mayflower near you.

Customers can receive service from one of more than 500 locations. As a result, you can get help from Mayflower from almost anywhere. In addition, Mayflower even conducts international moves, so its reach is clearly far and wide.

Mayflower now offers “Snapmoves”

In the last few years, Mayflower has built in more flexibility for its customers. The company offers Snapmoves, an option for when you might need Mayflower to move a few items or make a small move. You can mix and match services and only pay for what you need. Even if you’re making a big move, you can work with the company to ensure your move entails the services you need and nothing else. This customization is a pro because it helps you get exactly what you need and it can influence the cost of your move.

Moving far away?

Do it cheaper.

HireAHelper.com can save you up to 40%, compared to traditional interstate van lines.

Compare our long distance moving company options.

Cons of Moving with Mayflower Transit

You will (probably) bust your budget.

Full-service moves are notoriously expensive and Mayflower Transit is no different. The cost may be worth it to you if you cannot physically participate in your move or if you just don’t want to do the work and can afford it. More power to you if that’s the case. Most people, however, will find it hard to justify the costs when there are other options. That was my experience with Mayflower.

Getting an estimate is an inconvenient process.

To get an estimate, you must have some sort of walkthrough either with a live representative or virtually. It’s rather inconvenient because most people would much rather get an idea of the price before calling for an estimate. After all, you can easily rule out other options as you determine they are way out of your price range. But customization allows you some control over the final price, but it all depends on the weight of your stuff and the distance you’re moving. So, the only way to know for sure is to go through the entire estimate process. Ugh!

Reviews of regional agents vary from place to place.

Truly, you cannot make generalizations about Mayflower agents. The good news is that Mayflower has such a wide reach that you’re likely to find an agent nearby. The bad news is that you could have a different experience depending on where you are. The quality of service and some of the details of your move could change from place to place. This means you’ll have to research reviews and learn about the differences among local Mayflower agents.

Long distance move alternatives to Mayflower

There are a number of companies specializing in long distance moves, most with similar pricing, operations, services and follow-up processes. Our sister company Moving Place can also adapt to your move, either if you want to drive or want to hire someone to do the long distance drive for you, at a reasonable price.

Want to learn more about Mayflower? Check out Mayflower’s review on Moving101.

How to Prepare for a Long-Distance Move

Author: Kevin The Mover

Publish Date: May 18, 2020

Last Modified Date: June 7, 2023

Category: Long Distance Moving Advice, Moving Advice

Tags: Tags: 2 men and a truck, budget, cheap movers, cheaper moves, far away move, free moving boxes, good movers, hireahelper, local movers, long distance, long distance mover, long distance moving, long move, movers near me, movers with a truck, moving container, packing help, penske, pods, uhaul

What’s the difference between preparing for a local move and a long-distance move? If you guessed “time”, that’s only part of the equation.

You have lots of options to prepare for, and unlike a local move, there are more steps you need to take for better results. After moving people for, give or take, a couple decades, here’s what I’ve learned when it comes to preparing for a long-distance move.

How Am I Gonna Get Me and My Stuff Where I’m Going?

You have a number of options when planning a long distance move. Your options will all depend on these three things:

How much stuff you’re hauling
Your budget
Personal preference

What if I’m driving?

Some people decide to drive across the country, especially if they are bringing a vehicle or two. Beforehand, however, you should consider:

Car’s age and how many miles it has clocked
How many people and things it needs to hold
If it can handle a long trip without breaking down

If you need to get repairs ahead of time, then trust us, do that first. If that seems like it could be an issue or you just don’t wanna add hundreds of miles to your car, consider getting your car shipped.

Your other options are hitching it (to a truck for towing) or just ditching it. You can always try selling it or trading it in if you decide this is the end of the road for the car.

Are you driving with small children? Transporting pets? Using an RV? All of those have special considerations, so click those links to learn everything you should know first.

Moving far away?

Do it cheaper.

MovingPlace can save up to 40% compared to traditional interstate moving companies. Click here to learn how.

What transportation should you get to move your stuff long-distance?

Unless you’re selling everything you own and driving into the sunset, you’re gonna need something safe and reliable to get all your stuff to your new place.

What you need depends on your unique move. Don’t worry, you’ve got choices. Here are your best transportation options for a long-distance move.

Legend: $ out of “$$$$”

Get a Rental Truck

The three major rental truck companies you’re likely to have access to are U-Haul, Budget and Penske. (There might be alternatives near you for you to check for better prices.)

It’s true that you will get a better mileage rate for doing a “one way” drive (taking a rental vehicle from one store to another store), but your invoice will still likely be considerably higher by the end. If you’re willing to drive, though, this could save you plenty of money over other options.

Pros: Most affordable long-distance move option.

Cons: Much fewer customer service options, way more time investment, no labor estimate, very difficult without movers.

Price: $$

Long-Distance Movers with a Truck

What if you don’t want to figure out where to get the truck or you don’t want to drive it? Well, movers who do the transportation (and aren’t van lines—there’s a difference!) are a cheaper solution, if you know how to go about booking it.

For long-distance moves, user reviews overwhelmingly recommend companies like MovingPlace, which connects the dots and pieces together the best long-distance moving experience for you so you don’t have to spend eternity calling a million businesses, or spend an arm and a leg by going with an old-fashioned interstate mover.

Check out the rates here. If you’ve already budgeted for a Full-Service move, you may be pleasantly surprised how much it can save you.

Pros: Your move is figured out for you, the best-reviewed moving service online.

Cons: More expensive the more stuff you have, less affordable than a DIY move.

Price: $$ or $$$ (Depending on your move)

Renting Space on a Truck

This is the service a lot of the big-rig companies offer; you’ve probably seen their trucks on the road: ABF/UPack, Old Dominion, and more.

This is how it works: a semi-truck trailer is dropped off at your home, you load your stuff (or have someone load it for you), and you partition it off to keep it separate from other customers’ belongings.

A driver will come to take the trailer away and drive it to your new home. Sharing space on a trailer with other people who are moving is a cost-effective way to get your belongings across the country because you only pay for the space on the trailer you take up. That said, because this moving option involves multiple individuals’ prize possessions packed inside in shared moving trucks, we highly recommend protecting your stuff with smart loading.

Pros: You pay only for the space you use, transportation all taken care of.

Cons: More expensive the more stuff you have, some companies offer less flexibility with loading and unloading dates. Can have a high claims rate, unless you book with a well-reviewed “you load, we drive” moving service, like our partners at MovingPlace.

Price: $$$

Get a Portable Moving Container

Moving containers are ultra-convenient for long-distance moves for a few important reasons.

The biggest plus for moving containers is being able to load your belongings at your own pace. Companies like PODS bill you monthly (while others are at least give you a few days). Like a freight trailer but a lot smaller (another bonus for people who don’t have their own private driveway), your portable container is dropped off empty and picked up when full, then kept in storage untouched until you request delivery at your new home.

But be aware: unlike more traditional self-storage, access to your portable container is only easy if you keep it in your front yard; an appointment is generally necessary and will cost you extra, so plan ahead.

Pros: The most flexibility of any long-distance moving option, transportation is taken care of.

Cons: Costlier the more items you own, can add complexity if you send your stuff into their storage units.

Price: $$$

Get a Quote from a Full-Service Moving Company

If money and time is no object, call a Full-Service moving company. They can assess your home and schedule a crew of movers to come with the packing supplies to pack, load, drive, and unload your stuff within the month of your choosing.

Pros: Your move done for you, minus the coordination.

Cons: Almost always the costliest option, lengthy to coordinate and requires more time (sometimes a month ahead of time, or more).

Cost: $$$$

Wondering which option is best for your move? Go ahead and ask the pros.

How Much Do Long-Distance Moves Cost?

Interstate and long distance moving companies charge based on weight, distance, and any extra equipment or insurance options you opt into.

The average cost of an interstate move is $4,300 for an average distance of 1,225 miles and a shipment weight of 7,400 pounds, according to the American Moving and Storage Association and as reported by numerous outlets. Sound high? See if we can help lower the cost.

Ultimately, as we’ve explained above, the price will depend on:

Your exact starting and ending points
How much you need to move
Modes of transportation
Who, if anyone, you decide to hire

One more big factor to consider is if you have any specialty items to move, such as a baby grand piano or gun safe.

Are there any ways to reduce the price?

Here are some money protips you should know as you collect estimates:

Binding vs. Non-Binding Estimates: This is important to know if you’re pursuing a Full Service move. A binding estimate means you will pay the final price of the estimate regardless of whether your stuff ends up weighing less or more than expected. A non-binding estimate means you could end up with a different final tally, either less or more, depending on the weight
You can bring the price down by being flexible with travel dates; weekdays, especially in the offseason (not summer) are often cheaper
Ask moving companies for discounts. For example, members of the military and veterans often get cheaper rates for rental trucks and containers
If you have time before you have to move, you should try to start a moving fund
Be sure to keep track of spending and make a written out or digital budget
Those who are moving for work should see if the company reimburses for any or all of the move

How long does it take to pack for a long-distance move?

Here is, generally speaking, the time-required estimates for packing a home:

Studio/1BR Apt – 1 Day*
2BR Apt – 1-2 Days
3BR Apt – 2-3 Days
2BR House – 2-3 Days
3BR House – 3-4 Days
4BR House – 4-5 Days

* “One day” is about eight hours of one-person packing.

Knowing this, the single best strategy for packing is to start well in advance of when you think you should start, no matter which transportation option you choose. (In all my experience, I never heard someone say that packing took less time than they expected.)

Tips for Fast Packing

Try this: pick a closet or a room, or even just part of one room, and time how long it takes to pack.

This may give you an idea of how long it will really take you to pack up your entire home – and it will probably start looking like it will take much longer than you originally thought—so fair warning.

Make a checklist of the kinds of things you don’t need for a while. This can help minimize time spent deciding what to pack once you get started and are faced with that mountain of accumulation in the closet or the spare room.

The Most Trusted Moving Checklist on the Web

The Moving Checklist: Everything You Need to Know to Move

Things you don’t need for a while often include:

Out-of-season clothes
Holiday items
Books
Sentimental items
Decorations
Seasonal bedding

Even if you are undecided about what to do with some of your belongings, other groups of items are a no-brainer. Get them packed and out of your way.

Shelve the sentimental. You will undoubtedly come across stuff you think you might want to get rid of but aren’t quite sure. Expect it, and set all that stuff aside for later. The monstrous task of packing tends to make people see with much more clarity what they really need and what they can let go of.

Label boxes as you go! You will forget what is in all those boxes. Trust me.

DO NOT pack important paperwork, forms, documents. Shred those you don’t need. Things to to not pack away include:

Cash, credit cards, checkbooks
Bank and other financial statements
Insurance documents
Jewelry, high-dollar jackets/coats
Laptops/tablets w/cords, data backups
Medical/dental records, prescriptions/medicine
Personal documents, professional files/papers
Cell phones, chargers
Car/House keys
Family photos/irreplaceables
Identifying documents – birth certificates, social security cards, drivers licenses, passports

And get used to the idea of having boxes around.

Could I ship my stuff through the mail?

You could theoretically choose to ship some of your things via UPS, FedEx, or the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). Yes, it’s cheapest to send through USPS, but after packages get to only two pounds, pricing typically levels out. (That said, check out media shipping rates if you want to ship out a parcel or three that each weigh around 20 pounds.)

Where can I get packing materials for a long-distance move?

The easiest way to get clean, sturdy boxes and packing paper are from your moving service provider, who often sell these things. Many self-storage facilities also carry these things, along with tape. Though from a price perspective, you might be better off getting it from a home improvement store.

If you are looking to shave some dollars off your move, check out where you can find some free moving boxes here.

Protip: Bubble wrap is an attractive option for particularly expensive/hard-to-replace breakables, but it is bulky and becomes expensive quickly. Packing paper is more than adequate for packing most things. It is also easier to handle. Make sure you use the right kind of tape, too.

For some extra padding and protection for your most important and fragile items, consider using clothing/towels to wrap those items and/or line your boxes.

How do I load my vehicle for a long-distance move on my own?

Deciding to go it alone? Make sure to do this:

Load your belongings in what movers often call tiers. This means building walls, i.e., vertical layers of furniture, boxes, and assorted loose items. Furniture pads are crucial for this.

For example: set down your dresser and a desk (padded of course), some not too heavy boxes set on top of them, and top them off with outdoor equipment, pillows in plastic bags, etc. This all makes up one-tier.

Do You Really Need Moving Blankets? Why Furniture Pads Save Moves and Where to Get Them

Build one tier at a time, mixing furniture, boxes, and miscellaneous stuff. Cluster your items together like this to keep your stuff safer in the long run. Naturally, not all your tiers will be uniform. It is critical to pack tightly to avoid having everything shift and bounce around in transit.

To learn how pro movers move heavy furniture, check out this detailed post.

What if I’m flying?

If you’re taking a plane to the final destination, you should obviously consider bringing some things with you in luggage or handbags to save money on however you’re moving the rest of your stuff. Pack clothes and personal items that won’t break in the luggage, and bring fragile stuff, such as laptops and digital devices, in your carry-on bag. Paying for extra luggage on a flight is sometimes cheaper than shipping it via snail mail! Pile up your stuff, do the calculations and see what works best with your budget.

Looking to maximize your flying budget? In “The 10 Best (and Worst) Airfare Search Sites,” Frommer’s shares some of the best places for you to seek hot deals for air travel. When researching prices for flights, consider the following online travel agents and booking sites, but recognize that being better known does not necessarily mean being the best.

Momondo
Skyscanner
Kayak
Google.com/flights
The Usuals (Expedia, Travelocity, Orbitz, Priceline)

Is there anything extra I have to do if I’m moving across state lines?

Doing your homework on what is required of you for your specific interstate move is the first step.

Interstate moves are particularly complicated due to state laws. You still legally have to know what you are responsible for when you cross into another state.

Hiring movers? Some moving companies can’t even provide service for interstate moves because they lack the proper license. Check in with your mover ahead of time. (Of course, typing in your ZIP Code into HireAHelper filters all that stuff automatically.)

In addition, you have to know both state and local laws and ordinances that may be relevant to you. Both your departure and arrival towns likely have parking rules, which will be a consideration as you’re loading and unloading, especially if you’re leaving a PODS container somewhere for a week or more. (You think you can just park a big truck on a busy New York City road any time you want?)

Also, some states have certain laws restricting what you can bring in. For instance, there are a number of items that are illegal to bring into California, including certain firearms and fruits. Yes, your pet ferret, among other things, can’t join you if you’re headed for the Golden State.

What do people put off longest when they move interstate?

What do you need to do if you’re moving to a new state? This is what your to-do list should look like:

Forward your mail. Regardless of distance or state, do this first. This requires filling out a change of address form with the United States Postal Service (USPS)
Get a new driver’s license and plates. Typically, states require you to get your new license within 30 days, so make this a priority. Unfortunately, this will probably require standing in line at the DMV. One thing we can guarantee is it will be as annoying as nails on a chalkboard no matter what state you’re in
Establish domicile for tax purposes. In other words, that means becoming a resident (No matter where you go, they’ll have taxes!)
Transfer your utilities
Get a license for your pets if you have any (as long as they aren’t ferrets in California!)

Want to be reminded about even more easy to forget things? Check out these 21 easy-to-forget steps when moving to a new state.

Moving far away?

Do it cheaper.

MovingPlace can save up to 40% compared to traditional interstate moving companies. Click here to learn how.

Should I get rid of my stuff?

Take a look over the vast empire you’ve established. You must recognize that the less stuff you have to move, the better off you’ll be. After all, professional moving companies generally charge you based on the weight of the stuff you need to be transported. In other words, both literally and figuratively, you will have lifted a weight off your shoulders if you downsize.

“You’ll almost certainly want to bring some of your stuff, but the vast majority of what you own is replaceable,” writes Scott Meslow in GQ. “And the cost of moving most of what you own across the country is comparable to the cost of just buying something similar—or better!—once you actually arrive.”

The good news? Purging can be cathartic. Discover some ways you can unload your stuff before moving day:

Sell stuff online through Craigslist, eBay, or Etsy
Have a traditional garage sale
Give away things to your friends and family
Donate items through charities or religious organizations
Recycle old, worn-out clothes at a local recycling center

Experts suggest taking photographs, especially for anything of great value. You may want proof of exactly what condition the chosen ones – items with which you simply can’t part – were in before they get on the moving truck (or whatever mode of transportation you choose).

How do I move long-distance with a pet?

Moving long distance with a pet, obviously, depends on the pet. For a typical dog (or cat), some rules of thumb include:

Minimize anxiety with a toy
Ask for help watching your pet
Build a safe space during load/unload
Keep them tagged
Keep medication unpacked, if necessary
Feed them lightly

If you want to learn all the little details of how to move with a pet, check out this guide.

Got more questions?

We’ve got plenty of info in the form of reviews from customers of Penske, Budget and U-Haul on Moving101, as well as some alternative companies to look into for comparison shopping.

2019 Survey on Dating and Distance: How Far Are People Willing to Look for Love?

Author: Elyssa Kirkham

Publish Date: June 26, 2019

Last Modified Date: September 21, 2021

Category: Long Distance Moving Advice, Moving Stories

Tags: Tags: long distance girlfriend, long distance move, long distance moving, movers, moving for love, moving truck

Online dating fundamentally changed how we connect with others, and even how we date and fall in love. From Tinder to Bumble, Hinge, and even FarmersOnly.com, it’s easier than ever to find a match almost anywhere in the world.

Yet, while you can connect with someone on the other side of the globe, most people say they are still looking for romance close to home. In our recent survey, HireAHelper uncovers exactly what distances people are (or aren’t) willing to go to find love.

Survey highlights

When dating, most people’s limits for finding a partner are their state borders. Two-thirds (68%) say they’d look for a partner within their state borders or closer; this includes a third (35%) who wouldn’t look for love outside their neighborhood or city.
When dating through apps or online, the limit on love is 30 miles or less. Two-thirds of people say they’d set a dating app or site’s location radius for matches at 30 miles or closer.
More people are against getting into a long-distance relationship (41%) than are open to it (27%). Should they find a long-distance partner, however, many would consider moving to be with them — 44% would be open to the idea, compared to 26% who would be against it.
A long-distance relationship should last at least six months or more before considering a move to be together. 68% say they’d need to be dating for a period longer than six months.
Among those who have moved to be with a partner, 30% met their significant other online through a dating app or site.

Two-thirds of people set a dating app location radius of 30 miles or less

After picking out your sharpest selfies, it turns out the biggest decision you make when setting up a dating profile might be setting your location radius for matches. Most dating sites and apps require that you set a location radius that tells the platform how close or far you’re willing to look for love.

Overall, 30 miles or less seems to be the magic number — about two-thirds (62%) say they would set a distance radius at or under that amount if they were to use a dating app.

“Overall, 30 miles or less seems to be the magic number.”

On dating apps, what location radius would you set as the max distance for matches?

Millennials are generally more likely to set a smaller radius, with about half (49%) open to matches within 20 miles or less. This could reflect the stage of life they are at. With more open to casual dating and also with a larger pool of peers also looking for partners, they might feel they don’t need to look very far for matches.

Men are also more likely to set a smaller radius on dating apps, with 48% setting a dating radius of 20 miles or less — compared to 42% of women.

Dating and distance: 2 in 3 wouldn’t date outside their state

When it comes to looking for a new partner, most people are unwilling to search too far from home.

We asked people to name the furthest distance they’d be willing to go to find a partner if they were to start their search today.

About a third (35%) are willing to look for potential partners only as far as either their city or neighborhood.
Another 29% would be willing to look within their state or closer for a partner.
In all, two-thirds (68%) of people had distance limits within their state lines or closer.

State lines are the boundaries or potential love for most — but not all. Some people said they were willing to go the distance for true romance: 13% would be open to dating matches across state lines or further. Another 9% say they wouldn’t consider distance when dating.

Here’s a look at how dating distance preferences differed among specific demographics:

Relationship status: Single people who are actively dating or seeking a partner are less likely to say they aren’t willing to look for partners beyond their city limits (48% compared to 39% among general respondents).
Gender: Men are more likely to say they would only look as far as their neighborhood or city (43%) compared to women (37%).
Orientation: People who identified as homosexual or bisexual are more likely to be willing to look for love across state lines (16%) or to not consider distance (12%).

2 in 5 are against a long-distance relationship

If you were seeking a romantic partner, how open would you be to a long-distance relationship?

In line with the trend of people saying they’d look for love closer to home, more people say they’d be against entering long-distance relationships (41%) than would be open to it. That includes 17% who would be “very against” a long-distance relationship, as well as 24% who’d be just “somewhat against” it.

“After picking out your sharpest selfies, it turns out the biggest decision you make when setting up a dating profile might be setting your location radius for matches.”

That’s far more than the 27% of people who are open to a long distance relationship, of which just 7% say they’d be “very open” to such an arrangement.

Additionally, 6% say that distance wouldn’t matter to them, and another 27% are neutral on the topic.

Going by generations, millennials are the most open to long-distance dating. Just 39% would be against it, and 30% are open to it.

People aren’t looking for long-distance love — but if they find it, they’ll chase it

It’s not a shock that most people prefer to date closer to home and would prefer not to be in a long-distance relationship. The miles between them can make it trickier for couples to connect with each other, strengthen their bond, and develop and grow as partners.

But while a long-distance relationship isn’t what most people would look for, if it happens, they say they’d move to pursue it.

“Millennials are the most open to long-distance dating.”

When asked how willing they would be to relocate for a long-distance partner, 44% say they’d be either very or somewhat open to the idea. By comparison, just 26% say they’d flat out be against (again, either very or somewhat) the idea of moving for a significant other.

But among people willing to move for love, nearly half (49%) say they’d be open to relocating across state borders or further. That includes 17% who would move as far as across the country, and 7.4% who’d consider moving out of the country for love.

To warrant a move, 2 in 3 think a relationship should be 6 months or older

The length of a long-distance relationship is also a major factor that plays into deciding whether to move for love, our survey finds. Two-thirds (68%) say they’d consider moving for a romantic partner only after being together for six months or longer.

So who would be willing to move for a partner they’ve dated for less than 6 months? Twenty percent of respondents say they’d consider moving for a partner at or before 6 months of dating.

Women are more likely to say they wouldn’t move for a romantic partner (13% women vs. 11% of men) and are more likely to expect to be together for more than a year (41% vs. 35% for men).

Men are more likely to expect to be together for a shorter time before relocating, with almost a quarter (24%) expecting to be together for 6 months or less compared to just 18% of women.

Most long-distance couples meet on dating apps and sites

Looking for love and are open to long-distance relationships? You’re best off trying your luck on dating apps and dating websites. Three in 10 people who moved for love say they met their romantic partner through a dating app or website.

But don’t be afraid to try old-fashioned matchmaking methods, either, such as getting set up or introduced by family members or friends. Twenty-two percent say they met the partner they moved for thanks to their social circle. Another 15% met their significant other in a social setting, and 14% met through work.

While most people won’t be looking for long-distance love, if it happens, moving can be a smart move. Our survey also showed that moving for love works out more than it doesn’t. Of people who have moved for love, 73% say they’re glad they took this step.

Methodology

The results for this survey were conducted on the online platform Pollfish, collecting 1,000 responses on April 23, 2019. When discussing generational trends, we matched the survey’s demographics to the age ranges that most closely matches the current ages of these groups: millennials include respondents ages 25 to 34, Generation Xers includ ages 35 to 44, and Baby Boomers include respondents ages 65 and older.