We all prioritize different things when it comes to planning a move. While some might prefer to take it easy by packing and loading at their own pace, others may prefer things go as swiftly as possible and settle quickly in their new home. In any case, moving containers like PODS offer many possibilities for organizing the move you need.
In this blog post, we will cover the basics of moving with PODS: What are they, how do they work, and how much can they fit inside. Let’s dive in!
PODS Company Overview
PODS (Portable on-demand Storage) was the first company to make all those portable storage units you see on the road, in people’s driveways, or sitting in one of their 230 storage centers across the country.
With over 4 million deliveries and more than 900,000 long-distance moves under their belt, it’s safe to say they are the leading “you-pack it, they-move it” moving container companies.
What are PODS?
PODS are portable steel and aluminum storage containers that are delivered straight to your home, office, or wherever you designate as a delivery address. Once it’s in your location, you can keep it as long as you need and get billed monthly. Some of their most popular features include:
You get to schedule your delivery and pick-up dates
Available storage facilities for as long as you need
Translucent container roof which allows sunlight to come in
Security locks (just make sure to ask for them in advance)
Free insurance, covering up to $10,000
4.48/5 avg. customer reviews
How big are PODS?
There are three container sizes to choose from 7′, 12′, and 16′. However, they all have the same steel skeleton with aluminum skin and steel roll-up door.
The size you will need depends on how big your house is or how many rooms you plan to fit in it. We put together a small chart to help you figure out what size is best for you, considering your house’s dimensions and average room furnishing.
Length
Width
Height
Dimensions
Capacity
16’
8’
8’
1,200 sq. ft. or smaller
3 to 4 rooms
12’
8’
8’
500 – 1,00 sq. ft.
2 to 3 rooms
7’
7’
8’
500 sq. ft. or smaller
Dorm or small apartment
How much do moving PODS cost?
PODS can accommodate a wide range of moves: from local to long-distance, studio apartments to large houses. Naturally, prices can go up depending on how many PODS you will need and for how long. Remember, PODS bills monthly.
We analyzed actual HireAHelper data from thousands of people who have used PODS to move and broke down the average costs and reviews by distance; take a look below at how much moving PODS cost:
Distance
Average Cost
Average Review
Local Move (under 50 mi)
$664
4.51/5
Medium distance (50- 250 miles)
$1,503
4.59/5
Long distance (250+ miles)
$3,364
4.49/5
As you can see, planning a large, long-distance move with PODS might be on the pricier side compared with other moving container companies. But some of their different features can make the price worth it, such as:
The convenience of keeping the container as long as you need
They have one of the largest storage facilities networks in the Country
Avoid driving a trailer across states with tons of your furniture in it
Seamless operations and logistics, according to their customer reviews
How exactly does PODS work?
Let’s talk about how you can plan your move if you decided to go with PODS.
Use their online estimator, or call them
There are a couple of ways you can book your PODS. You can build your itinerary on their site, according to how much stuff you have and your needs. Make sure you have an accurate estimate on the things you’ll be moving; there’s nothing worse than ending up spending too much by adding more containers than necessary or running out of space too soon (yikes!). If you’re planning a long-distance move, you’ll need to call the PODS line for a customized moving quote: 888-371-9441.
Reserve your date
Once you settle the details, your container will be delivered to your location. You can keep the containers on your property as long as your need, but remember that they bill monthly, so if you go one minute over the month, you get charged for another.
Keep in mind that you will need the space in your driveway or the street for the container. You don’t want to be that neighbor. You may need a special permit for your container if you plan to keep it in the street, so make sure to sort those details out before the delivery day, or you could get fined.
Wait for delivery
One interesting thing is that you don’t necessarily need to be present for your PODS delivery, as long as you leave detailed delivery instructions for the driver to place your container. Nevertheless, some users might recommend it’s better if you’re present if any issues need to be solved at the moment.
If having a big metal container in your front yard isn’t your thing, just ask PODS to pick it up once it’s loaded. They can keep it safe in one of their 230 storage centers across the country until you are ready to have it delivered to your destination.
The Bottom Line About Moving with PODS
PODS is convenient because they take care of all the transportation logistics while giving you enough time and space to plan your ideal move. However, prices may seem a little steep compared to the competition, especially for long distances and if you need more than one PODS container to fit in your stuff.
Also, keep in mind that PODS are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so depending on their availability, you can secure a container on the dates you need if you plan early. Generally speaking, summer tends to be the peak season for moving, so if you plan to move during these months, remember to book your PODS with plenty of time in advance to secure your container.
It doesn’t hurt to shop around and get more quotes, but always keep in mind that time is your best friend for booking a move. Usually, planning months ahead gets you a better deal, depending on the size of your move and the distance you have to go.
You can start planning by taking a look at our Moving101 page about moving containers, we have a myriad of information on the most popular moving container companies, their pros, cons and reviews.
21 Easy to Forget Steps When Moving to A New State
If you’re relocating to another state, it can be tough to manage the packing, organizing, and administrative steps involved in moving, given the unknowns of your new state. Fortunately, you can cut down on the confusion (not to mention the time, money, and hassle) if you know what to expect ahead of time.
Keep this cross-state moving checklist handy while you’re in the process of relocating to your new world.
Decide if you’re going the full-service or DIY route
Cost or convenience? Those are your options, but there are a lot of ways to achieve both.
For example, if you want to leave the heavy lifting and driving to someone else, you may want to hire professional movers. Of course, this option will be more expensive. But if you want to go the in-between route, cost-wise, you can also hire movers to just load and unload the truck for you, and then drive yourself to your new location to save a lot of cash.
If you still need a moving company to do the work but don’t want to pay interstate mover prices, there are highly reviewed companies like MovingPlace who will get you the best price possible for a long-distance move.
Also, keep in mind that moving container companies are another option to potentially consider, especially if you will be in-between moves for a while. This means you’ll be in charge of packing and loading the container yourself, though you can hire professional movers to help you with the heavy stuff if you need to.
Research the best moving companies for the distance you are actually traveling
If you aren’t sure about the above, here’s another way to look at it: whether you’re hiring a moving company, driving your own truck, or going with a shipping container, the distance you’re moving will make a big difference in what options you have.
For example, some companies only do local moves, meaning a distance of 100 miles or less. If you’re moving within your state, but several hundred miles away (known as an “intrastate move”), you’ll need to budget for higher moving costs and find a company that specializes in longer distances. Moving across several states (known as an “interstate move”) will be the most expensive option and require a company that has a national presence.
The American Moving and Storage Association estimates that the average cost of an interstate household move is about $4,300, while the average cost of an intrastate move is about $2,300.
Whatever the costs are, make sure to set aside time to plan for all of them and save up the money you need so you don’t end up with a ton of credit card debt once it’s all said and done.
Moving far away?
Do it cheaper.
HireAHelper.com can save you up to 40%, compared to traditional interstate van lines.
Are you moving out of state to take a new job? If so, your employer may offer financial assistance for relocating and help cover the cost of expenses such as moving company costs, storage, temporary housing, and more. It’s true, it can actually cost up to $100,000 to relocate one employee, but it’s an investment some companies are willing to make for the right talent.
To find out if this is a benefit your company offers, reach out to your Human Resources department.
Find out if your new place has any restrictions for pets or plants
You don’t want to run into any trouble getting your fur babies or precious plants to their new home. Some states, such as California and Hawaii, have strict rules around transporting plants and animals. Be sure to know what those restrictions are and prepare accordingly. You can start with your state’s website (look for a “.gov” website).
Consider the season you’re moving in
If you can help it, you don’t want to spend all day unloading your belongings at the height of summer in Arizona or hurricane season in Louisiana. Research the climate for your new home and plan the move when the weather should be mild. You can look up your destination on a site like Climate-Data.org, which contains a ton of data around the average monthly temperature, precipitation, and more for cities around the world.
If possible, visit the location at least once
If you’re moving to a new city or area you’re not familiar with, it’s a good idea to spend some time in the area and check it out before pulling the trigger on a move. You’ll want to see what the neighborhood is like, including what types of shops and restaurants are nearby, how the neighbors are, how walkable it is, etc. If there’s just no way you can make the trip before the actual move, at least look around using Google Maps.
Ask businesses or people for packing supplies
Make sure you have all the necessary supplies handy for properly packing your belongings, and keep extra on hand just in case. You don’t want to run out in search of boxes or tape while you’re in the middle of packing up. Always consider any specialized supplies you may need, such as wardrobe boxes, hangers, bubble wrap, box knives, permanent markers, and dollies.
To save money on these items, see if anyone has cheap or free moving boxes on sites such as Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or Nextdoor.
Set aside 6-12 hours to pack, per room
Packing will take longer than you think. If you hire professional movers to pack up and load your belongings, you can probably expect it to get done in a day. A two-bedroom home, for example, requires about six to 12 hours, assuming a two-person crew.
If you’re doing your own packing, you will probably need much more time, though — think two to three days for the same two-bedroom. Unless you’re able to squeeze your packing over one weekend, you might need to plan ahead and get time off of work approved.
Figure out your new place’s move policies
Some apartment buildings and other planned communities have strict rules around moving. For example, you may not be allowed to block certain streets or driveways, or take up the elevators for too long. Be sure to know these policies ahead of time so you can plan around them. To find out, contact your building’s property manager or head of the homeowners association.
Get your utilities transferred
The last thing you want is to show up to your new place and have no water or electricity. Call up your utility companies to let them know you’re moving! If they happen to service your new destination, you can have the service transferred. Otherwise, you’ll need to close the account (be sure to get back any deposits you paid upfront) and open new ones for your new place.
To set up a new service, first, research the options available in your new city. Once you’ve selected the provider, it’s a good idea to get the ball rolling at least two weeks in advance of your move. You can usually create an account and set up service using the provider’s website (if not, call them directly). You’ll need to know the address where you want service set up, as well as the start date. Keep in mind that for some utilities, such as electricity, the service provider may need to run a soft credit check and/or require a deposit to approve your account.
Belong to a gym or club? Many require at least one months’ notice before you cancel your membership, so be sure to get this done well before you move. If the organization has a location in the city you’re moving to, you may be able to transfer the membership instead.
Have your child’s school records transferred, too
If you have kids, it’s important to notify their school of the move. Be sure that their school records, along with other important records such as health information and immunizations, get transferred over to the new school. You can bring photocopies of these documents when you register them at their new school. However, you will eventually need to supply official, sealed copies of their transcripts, which include report cards and standardized test results, in order to have their permanent records moved.
Look into transferring your professional license
If you work as a doctor, dentist, lawyer, or other licensed professional, you may need to transfer your license or apply for a new one if you’re moving to a different state. The process for transferring your license will depend on your state and profession. Some states have reciprocity agreements or other arrangements to help ease the process, but you should contact your state licensing board as soon as possible to ensure you have enough time.
Update your driver’s license or ID within two weeks
Most states require you to get a new license within two weeks of relocating. You’ll need to book an appointment with your local Department of Motor Vehicles and bring along some paperwork, including your current license, additional identification (such as your Social Security card or passport), proof of residence (such as a utility bill or W-2), and payment. Be sure to book an appointment in advance since slots tend to fill up quickly. You can find your local DMV office using this directory.
Update your vehicle registration and insurance
If you’re making an interstate move, you’ll need to register your car with your new state’s DMV as well. Each state offers a grace period to update your registration, typically between 30 to 90 days. Most states also require proof of insurance to register your car, so sign up for a new policy if you’re unable to remain with the same insurer (and don’t cancel your old one until you do) before registering.
Along with your new ID and proof of insurance, you’ll need proof of residency and your car’s title. Keep in mind that some states, including California and Georgia, charge a tax to register your vehicle that’s based on its market value. It’s especially important to plan for this added expense if you have a newer car or luxury vehicle.
Ship your car, if necessary
If you’re not driving your own vehicle to the new location, you’ll need to have it shipped. Some moving companies will ship your car along with your belongings, but you may be able to save some money by hiring a company that specializes in shipping cars. Your vehicle’s size and condition, the distance being shipped, and the type of carrier will all factor into the price.
One of the biggest decisions to make is whether to go with open or closed transport; it’s probably better to go with a closed container if you have a newer or luxury vehicle, though the cost can be as much as 60% higher. Be sure to get several quotes before choosing a car shipping company.
Contact your banks and lenders
Don’t miss any important payments – make sure that your bank, credit card company, student loan servicer, and any other financial institutions know that you’ve moved and have your new address. You may be able to do this by logging into your online banking platform, or by calling the number on your card or statement.
Have your mail forwarded
To make sure you don’t miss any important mail in the transition, have your mail forwarded by the USPS starting a few days before your move. Don’t forget to update your new mailing address with the DMV and on any subscriptions, too.
Register to vote
Don’t let your civic duty be forgotten in the move! If you move within the same state, you can find out how to update your voter registration here. Otherwise, check Vote.gov to find instructions for registering to vote in your new state.
Get a handle on taxes
Finally, one aspect of moving that you may not have considered, but can impact your finances quite a bit, is the state income tax. In addition to paying federal taxes, most states also charge taxes. Some have a flat tax, meaning everyone pays the same tax rate. Others have a progressive tax system, which means you pay a higher tax rate on higher amounts of income. And a handful don’t charge income tax at all.
Here’s the latest available breakdown of state tax rates as of 2020:
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Keep in mind that if you lived and worked in the same state all year, you only need to file one state return. However, if you moved to another state during the year (or otherwise lived in one state and earned income in another) you might need to file more than one return.
How to Use a Moving Container for a Long Distance Move
The first time I visited Hawaii, I fell in love. After a couple of days of snorkeling, hiking, and eating some of the best food I’ve ever had, I began fantasizing about packing up my home in Los Angeles and moving long-distance to the island of Oahu to live my dream life.
For now, that’s still just a fantasy. But for thousands of people every year, moving long-distance is very much a reality. If you’re considering a long-distance move, you may be wondering how to get all your belongings to your new destination for the least amount of money and headache. That’s where a moving container company may be able to help.
How Do Moving Containers Work?
Moving containers (sometimes called “shipping containers”) are large, portable storage units that can be used to store and move belongings, including over long-distances. They act as a portable storage unit while you get settled in. They are made out of either metal or wood and are weather-proofed to protect your items from the elements.
Typically, after you book, a truck will drop off the container(s) at your home. After you’re done loading (or in some cases, within an allotted amount of days), a driver comes and picks it all up, then drives it all to your new destination. Once you’ve unpacked the container(s), a truck will come to haul everything away.
The smallest sizes hold the equivalent of a studio apartment, while the largest containers can hold three to four bedrooms worth of furniture. Depending on how much stuff you plan to move, you may need more than one container.
The cost of using a moving container is based on several factors:
The distance of the move
Size and number of containers
Length of time you have the containers
The season
One thing you should know, however, is that moving long-distance is generally more expensive than moving locally. More on that below.
What Is Considered “Long Distance,” Anyway?
Usually, any relocation over 100 miles is considered “a long-distance move”.
Here’s some lingo to know: if you’re moving within your own state, it’s known as an “intrastate move”. Moving across state lines is an “interstate move”. And if you’re relocating somewhere several states away, it’s often known as a “long-haul” or “cross country move”.
Are Shipping Containers Better than Moving Trucks?
You might be wondering how using a shipping container is different from renting a moving truck. There are a few similarities, but also a few key differences.
Shipping containers allow you to take more time packing, unpacking and even storing your belongings. In fact, it’s possible to rent a moving container for several months! For that reason, moving containers usually cost a lot more than trucks, so you should really take advantage of it if you go with one.
You also put the driving in someone else’s hands. If you don’t want to drive a big truck, this is a huge perk. Once your belongings are packed and on their way to the new destination, you can’t access them.
A moving truck, on the other hand, means you are in control of every part of the move. That could be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on your goals. You are responsible for transporting your items from your old place to the new destination, but you can also access your stuff at any point if need be. Though renting a moving truck is cheaper, you also don’t have the added benefit of extra time or storage.
Pros and Cons of Using A Moving Container For Your Long-Distance Move
If you’re weighing the decision to use a moving container for your long-distance move versus going with a truck or full-service movers instead, here’s a look at the major pros and cons.
Long Distance Moving Container Pros
Cheaper than hiring full-service movers: One of the biggest benefits of using a shipping container is the savings. It can cost anywhere from $1,200 to $5,000 on average, or more, to hire movers for a long-distance move, according to Consumer Affairs. However, that cost can greatly increase if you have several rooms worth of furniture to move, many miles to travel, extra stops to make, specialty items, added materials, storage and more. Shipping containers, on the other hand, on average cost around $2,000 to $3,000, with storage included.
Storage at your new destination: Speaking of storage, it’s one of the biggest benefits to using a shipping container for your long-distance move. Not only can you pack up at your own pace, you can keep your items in storage while you get your new place in order. Renting a truck or movers, on the other hand, means you have to stick to a tighter schedule and have everything unloaded right away. No need to have to perfectly coordinate movers to the minute!
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Long Distance Moving Container Cons
You have to do the heavy lifting: Getting an entire house packed up and ready to move long-distance can be time consuming and exhausting. Not to mention, it takes strength and a few helping hands to get everything from Point A to Point B. If you want to focus on other aspects of your move and leave the major work to professionals, hiring labor from a moving company to load and unload your container may be the better choice, and might still cost less overall than full-service van lines.
They take up space: Neighbors won’t appreciate having their parking spaces or driveways blocked by the container. That means you’ll need a driveway or other large space where the moving container can sit as you pack up your home, as well as unload furniture at your new destination. Or if you’re moving to a busy city, you’ll need a permit ahead of time to place one for any amount of time. Plus, even though moving containers lock up, it’s a good idea to have yours in a secure area.
What Are The Best Moving Container Companies For a Long Distance Move?
Keep in mind that not all moving container companies will do long-distance moves. Below are some of the top companies that do!
PODS
Short for “Portable On-Demand Self-Storage,” PODS is one of the more expensive companies on the list. However, they’re known for durable containers and have the most locations by far.
Container material: Steel
Container sizes: 16′, 12′, and 7’
Average long-distance move cost: $3,352
1-800-PACK-RAT
This company is similar to PODS in the cost, sizes available and number of locations. However, 1-800-PACK-RAT is more spread out geographically, meaning there’s likely a facility near you to speed up pick up and delivery.
Container material: Steel
Container sizes: 16′, 12′, and 8’
Average long-distance move cost: $3,551
U-Pack
U-Pack only offers one size of moving containers through its Relocubes long-distance moving service. You also have only three days on either end of your move to pack and unload. The plus side is that this makes it much more cost-effective to move long-distance.
Container material: Metal
Container sizes: (one size) 6’3” x 7′ x 8’4”
Average long-distance move cost: $2,393
U-Box/U-Haul
You may know U-Haul for its orange moving trucks. For long-distance moves, the company offers its U-Box service, which only offers one size of container that’s not quite as durable as some metal options. However, it also provides flexible billing and live container tracking.
Container material: Plywood with weatherproof cover
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.
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
ABF
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: $$$
Get a Portable Moving Container
PODS.com
Moving containers are ultra-convenient for long-distance moves for a few important reasons.
The biggest plus for moving containers is being able to load your belongings at your own pace. Companies like PODS bill you monthly (while others are at least give you a few days). Like a freight trailer but a lot smaller (another bonus for people who don’t have their own private driveway), your portable container is dropped off empty and picked up when full, then kept in storage untouched until you request delivery at your new home.
But be aware: unlike more traditional self-storage, access to your portable container is only easy if you keep it in your front yard; an appointment is generally necessary and will cost you extra, so plan ahead.
Pros: The most flexibility of any long-distance moving option, transportation is taken care of.
Cons: Costlier the more items you own, can add complexity if you send your stuff into their storage units.
Price: $$$
Get a Quote from a Full-Service Moving Company
Two Men and a Truck
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!)
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
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.
Car Shipping: How to Ship Your Car (Safely) If You’re Moving Long Distance
Every year, a large number of people moving to a new state ship their cars for the first time. Shipping a car isn’t hard, but a few common mistakes can cost you a lot of time and money, especially when trying to juggle the logistics of moving long distance too. Companies like Moving Place can help you plan your whole long distance move. They care care of booking a truck, a driver and getting your stuff safely to you new home, but what about your vehicle?
I’m using my decade of expertise to help. Here’s how to (safely) do an auto transport using a step-by-step process.
How to Find an Auto-Transport Company
If you reside in a big city, these days it’s as simple as typing “my city auto transport” into Google. The “my city” being either the city you are shipping to or from.
Literally hiring a company online to move your car is usually the easiest part of the entire auto transport process. It’s cheaper than hiring a professional driver, keeps miles off your tires, and it’s helpful if you aren’t able to drive the car to your new place yourself.
Does the company have to be located where I’m going or where I am now?
No. Finding a company based in either your origin or destination city isn’t crucial. You can absolutely hire a company from anywhere in the country to ship your car. But companies based on where you are or are going are ideal because of the flexibility they might offer with scheduling. The shippers will be in your city of origin or destination for a few days, as opposed to passing through, which usually leads to more flexibility.
What if there is no auto-transport company near me?
Unfortunately, finding an auto transport company specific to your city isn’t always possible, especially if you live in a rural area.
If you live where there are few options near you, your first step is to search for a company based in the opposite place that you are shipping your car either to or from. Every state typically has at least a few auto transport companies that can help.
If you still can’t find one (or you don’t like any of the ones that you do find), move on to just a general search for auto transport companies elsewhere in the country. Yes, you can still receive fine service from a company not based in your state, it’s just an advantage to have someone familiar with your route to work for you.
I always recommend calling them, as opposed to emailing, because you get a much better feel for what working with that company will be like.
Also, call more than a few of the (reputable) companies that show up in your search. (More on finding reputable companies below.)
How much does it cost to transport my car?
This will vary significantly based on lots of factors, but transportreviews.com reports that the average cost is $983, based on the average distance of 1,662 miles. Obviously, this price will fluctuate lower or higher, depending on where you’re transporting your car, as well as how big your vehicle is.
How do I get a quote?
Be prepared to tell the company this basic information:
Where is the car is coming from?
Where are you going?
When do you want to have it shipped?
Knowing the basics is all it takes to get a quote. Want to be really sure what your best option is? It’s standard to get as many as four different quotes to get a good idea of what a fair price is. (Or at least tell them you’re collecting quotes.)
How to Hire a Good Company
How do you know who a bad company is?Knowing this begins with understanding what is happening behind the scenes. There are two types of car shipping services, and first-time shippers usually have no clue which they are (or how good they may be) until well after they ship their first car.
What’s a “Broker” and what’s a “Carrier”? And why does it matter?
Brokers are companies that don’t actually own the truck that ships your car.
Almost all of the companies that you find online are brokers and don’t actually own the transportation. Their purpose is to find the carrier who will actually ship the car. This can sometimes be a necessary step because finding a carrier without the connections that brokers have can be extremely difficult.
You generally want to avoid brokers who are not upfront that they themselves are not shipping your car!
Brokers charge a set fee for their service and make an educated guess on what the rest of the transport will cost when they give you a quote. Whether or not they tell you they are a broker upfront depends on what kind of company you find.
Carriers are the companies that own trucks and employ drivers. This is the company that will do the actual relocating of your vehicle. The reason brokers are necessary is due to most of these shipping companies being extremely small.
It’s not uncommon for the owner of the company to be the driver and sole employee. These small companies don’t have websites and don’t do any marketing because they rely on brokers for their freight. If you are not already inside the industry, finding a company on your route and on your schedule would require hours of work.
With the magic of the internet, it’s easier than ever to check who is and who isn’t legit. Before you request a quote from a company, check their reviews. Car shipping companies have many different sales tactics to trick you once they get your information.
What’s the most common tactic to trick customers?
After ten years of experience, I know it’s simply to promise impossibly low prices in order to get you to book right away.
Do not simply request quotes from as many companies as you can. By giving away your info, you will run into very persistent sales people that will never stop calling you. Furthermore, there are some companies that look like transport companies but are actually what are known as “lead generators”. This means the information you put on their site is going to be sold to 10 or 15 different companies. Your phone will not stop ringing for days!
You want to get as many quotes as you can, but you need to make sure the company is a legitimate broker or carrier before you inquire. How? Check for and read verified reviews before requesting quotes. This will help you avoid bad websites. Did you get an extremely low quote? That’s a red flag.
Get a Written Contract (Then Read It)
If you found a good broker, getting an easy to understand contract should be a breeze. But you still have to be careful (just like you should with every contract you sign!).
What should I watch out for?
Read through the contract very carefully. If your contract says anything – and it will be small – about the price “not being guaranteed”, this is a major red flag.
I have heard plenty of stories from customers about how they signed a contract with a broker, only to be told at the last minute that the price is a $100 to $500 more “than expected”.
Correctly Prepare The Inside and Outside of Your Car to Be Shipped
It is standard practice to get your car inspected by the shipping company, but first, you need to clean the car so that an accurate inspection can be done.
If the car is dirty, the driver might miss something when they do the inspection on pick up, or you might miss something when the inspection is done on delivery. An accurate inspection is vital in case there is a problem.
Do auto-shippers charge by weight?
Yes. Lighten your car as much as possible. Auto shippers will charge you by the weight of your car, and bigger vehicles will cost more to ship.
Most drivers allow 100 pounds or less for free. (Remember: the personal items you put in the car cannot be insured.) If you exceed 100 pounds, you could be charged extra for the added weight. For a totally packed small car, the driver will ask for around $200-$300. A totally packed large SUV or truck could be from $300-$500 extra, or the driver might even refuse the shipment. If you need to put things in the car, let your broker know ahead of time when you are booking so that they can arrange it with the carrier.
Drivers also prefer you leave the car with a quarter tank of gas. That’s enough so that they don’t have to worry about it running out when moving it, but not so much that they haul additional weight for no reason.
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Arrange to Get Your Car Exactly Where You Can Get It
Now that you’ve found a good company, you’ve signed the contract, and you’ve readied your car, you need to tell the company the best place to have the car picked up.
When will my car be available for pick up?
If you are flying, think about which end you need the car more. Is it the city the car is being picked up in, or the city it is being dropped off at? Trust me, in my experience, you will definitely beat the trucker to your destination. Remember that all delivery dates are estimated.
Moving trucks have one pick up and one drop off, so you can imagine that a moving truck estimate is much more accurate than auto transport trucks, who routinely have to deal with around 10 different pickups and drop-offs a day! Because of this fact, make sure that you have a backup plan on the day of pick up and drop off.
If the car isn’t delivered when and where you need it, ask a friend that can hold onto the car for you, or maybe a neighbor. It’s not even unheard of for a hotel manager or car dealership to offer this as a service.
What to Do When Your Car Shows Up
When the truck comes to pick up the car, make sure the driver does an accurate inspection and that you get a copy of the inspection report on pick up. This ensures the state of your vehicle cannot be altered. The inspection report is the only thing that can support your claim if any damage occurs.
The delivery driver does the inspection on pick up, you do the inspection on the delivery. Remember that if you sign the inspection report, you are releasing the driver and the company from all liability. That means if you notice something later, there is nothing you can do!
In my experience, damage doesn’t happen often and the process for getting reimbursed is not difficult if you do everything right. Almost all damage during transport is extremely minor. Small scratches or a dent is the most common of these things.
Most companies will prefer to handle the matter directly rather than have you go through their insurance company. The most important thing is that you do not sign the inspection report until you have received your reimbursement. Again, damage almost never happens in the first place, but you need to make sure you handle the paperwork properly if it does.
Do I have to do anything else after the car is delivered?
Hopefully, everything is done correctly and the process will be seamless. But if not, leave a review.
If you were happy with the service it’s always nice to leave a review saying so. The best place online to do this is on transportreviews.com, which in my experience is the biggest and most sincere community for car transportation reviews online. By leaving an honest review, companies know what they are doing right and you’ll help the next person transporting their vehicle make a more informed decision.
Similarly, if you weren’t happy with the service, let your broker know. Some things are out of the control of the broker and the driver, so be understanding if your car was a day late. Like I mentioned earlier, dates are always estimates in the auto transport industry.
If however, you feel that your experience was poor, then it’s especially important to leave a review. This helps future customers and the companies that are doing good work out there.
Max is the owner of MiG Auto Transport. He has been in the auto transport industry for over seven years. Originally from New York, he now lives in (sometimes) sunny Jacksonville, FL. He loves his wife, dog, cars and (sometimes) the Jacksonville Jaguars.
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How do I get a quote?
When the truck comes to pick up the car,