So you have decided to embark on an exciting journey and move across the country! As you begin the planning process you are probably wondering which moving option is the best. While you want to make the process as seamless as possible, you also don’t want to break the bank paying for your move. Every dollar counts, and that’s why it’s important to choose a moving option that is both convenient and affordable.

Given that the average cost of hiring professional movers for a long-distance move is roughly $5,000 (based on 7,500 pounds and 1,000 miles), it’s understandable that you might be concerned about the cost of your move. Fortunately, there are cheaper moving options available that can help you relocate with ease while also saving you a great deal of money.

What are the cheapest moving options?

The two most affordable moving options are renting a truck and renting a portable container. For local moves, renting a truck is easily your cheapest option, but this changes when it comes to long-distance moves. That’s because in addition to the truck rental, you have to factor in costs like gas, food, and lodging. When you add in those expenses, portable moving containers can actually save you money. Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of these two moving options.

Rental Trucks

You Load and Unload Yourself

Rental trucks are for those who want to use the DIY method. They are cheaper because you are doing the loading, driving, and unloading. The thought of having to load and unload an entire house full of boxes is overwhelming to many people. That’s one of the main reasons people often pay professional movers to load and unload for them. However, it is a great option for those looking to save a tremendous amount of money.

You Drive the Truck

 In addition to loading and unloading the truck, you are also responsible for driving the truck. Again, this can be a daunting task for many people who don’t feel comfortable driving such a large truck across the country. In the end, however, it comes down to convenience vs. cost. There is no question that hiring professional movers will be easier, but you can’t beat the affordability of renting a truck.

Portable Containers

You Load and Unload Yourself

Much like a rental truck, you are responsible for loading and unloading portable containers yourself. The difference, however, is that you can rent the containers for as long as you like. So, unlike renting a truck, you will not be rushed to complete this process in a couple of days. With portable containers, you have the flexibility to load and unload at your convenience. In addition, they are delivered directly to your door so you don’t have to worry about picking them up yourself. Finally, portable containers allow for ground level loading so unlike a rental truck, you will not be forced to carry boxes and heavy furniture up and down a steep ramp.

They are Transported for You

Once you have loaded your portable container and you are ready to move, simply call the portable storage company to arrange for your container to be picked up and delivered directly to your new home.

You Can Take Your Time Unpacking

Since you can rent the portable container for as long as you like, you can take your time unpacking. This is also a convenient solution if you are not moving into your new home right away because you have the option to place your container in storage for as long as you need. This is also a great way to keep your belongings out of the way if you plan to paint or remodel before you move in.

Rental Trucks vs. Portable Containers

For a long distance move, portable containers are your cheapest and best option. While both options save you a tremendous amount of labor costs, renting a portable container also significantly diminishes traveling costs. For example there are no mileage fees, fuel charges, food and lodging expenses, or truck rental insurance. Not only will save you hundreds of dollars using portable containers, but they are far more convenient. As stated earlier, you can rent them for as long as you like giving you flexibility with your move. You also don’t have to worry about driving a big truck and transporting your own belongings.

The bottom line is this: if you are traveling locally or just a couple hundred miles away, you could save the most money by renting a truck. For long-distance or cross-country moves, renting a portable container is your most affordable and best option.