How To Lower Your Moving Costs

Posted on: July 26, 2007

Dear Move Advocate,

How will the cost of my move be calculated, and what can I do to lower that cost?

—Thrifty in Thomasville

Dear Thrifty,

the Move Advocate, which is a no cost, single point of contact move management program for state to state moves. Benefits include discounts, protection coverage, multiple & binding van line estimates.

1. Do a partial pack of your household goods. Some people choose to pack their own non-breakable items like sheets and towels, which helps lower the cost of their shipment. Remember, though, that anything not packed by the movers is not covered by the free protection coverage offered by the The Move Advocate contract.
2. Do not add extra services. Accessorial services such as packing, appliance servicing, unpacking, piano stair carries, debris pick-up (box removal), 3rd party crating and uncrating (extra protection for special items), and storage will add additional charges. If you can waive these special services you will be able to save money. The Move Advocate can give you advice about which of these services might be right for you.
3. Lighten your load. Do you really want to move everything you own? This might be the right time to get rid of some of the heavier items you no longer need. Consider whether moving your older appliances is cost worthy. If it is nearly time to buy new ones, you may want to leave them behind. Below is a list of appliances and the average expected life span for each.

   • Refrigerator: 18 to 20 years
   • Microwave oven: 10 years
   • Electric range: 18 to 20 years
   • Oven/stove (gas): 18 to 20 years
   • Dishwasher: 10 years
   • Washer and dryer: 12 years

4. Cash in on the competitive discounts offered by The Move Advocate. The Move Advocate has negotiated significant discounts with the nation’s most reputable van lines. These discounts are passed on to you and are not available to the general public. Call The Move Advocate today and cash in on the savings!