The question of how to move cross country can be one of the most exciting — and stressful — questions of adult life. In this article, we’ll break down some common strategies, real costs, and what to consider before hitting the road (or hiring someone else to).

Before starting, remember to:

• Understand your budget (Every strategy costs something!)
• Make an inventory list of what you own (Sample included below!)
• Decide who’s coming with you (carpooling or solo?)

What works best will depend on your cash flow, risk tolerance, and sense of adventure. Let’s break down the four most common approaches:

The D.I.Y. Move

The do-it-yourself move is a classic. It can save you thousands and give you a huge sense of accomplishment — especially if you’re doing it with a friend or partner.

The Strategy

• Rent a moving truck (U-Haul, Penske, etc.)
• Pack and load everything yourself
• Drive across the country, staying in motels or sleeping in the car
• Drop off the truck in your destination city
• Tow or drive your own car (or bring someone to help)

Risks

• Underestimating time and effort
• Car or truck damage
• Physical exhaustion or injury
• High costs for gas, lodging, tolls, packing supplies
• Damage fees from landlords (scratched floors, etc.)
• Theft when parking overnight in unfamiliar places

Payoffs

• Major cost savings
• Pride and bonding experience
• Total control of your schedule

Bonus Tip

Driving cross-country? Plan a sightseeing route to turn your move into a road trip. Just don’t sacrifice safety for scenic detours.

The Minimalist Move

Ideal for young adults or international relocations.

When I moved to NYC from Texas in my twenties, I ditched the idea of hauling furniture cross-country. I packed two checked bags and a large backpack, shipped a few key items, and ordered a mattress to meet me at my new apartment.

The Strategy

• Fly with two checked bags and a backpack
• Ship essentials via UPS/FedEx
• Amazon or Facebook Marketplace furniture to your new place
• Replace basics (kitchenware, toiletries, spices) in one weekend

Risks

• No backup if furniture delivery is delayed
• You’ll have to buy everything again — which can add up fast
• Some things (like sentimental or niche items) are hard to replace

Payoffs

• Stress-free travel day
• Freedom to redecorate
• Easy reset with less clutter

The Road Trip Move

This is basically the D.I.Y. move with a side of national parks and quirky gas station snacks.

The Strategy

• Drive your rental truck or car cross-country
• Plot a route through scenic or meaningful stops (national parks, hometowns, etc.)
• Stay at motels, campgrounds, or Airbnbs with safe parking

Risks

• Theft risk with a packed vehicle
• Driving fatigue (don’t rotate night driving — it’s not safe!)
• Same downsides as a D.I.Y. move, just with better views

Payoffs

• Memorable experience
• Opportunity to explore America
• Great for bonding or solo reflection

The Professional Move

If you have the budget, this is by far the least stressful route.

The Strategy

• Hire professional movers for loading, transport, and optionally, packing
• Some companies even offer white-glove services to unpack and arrange everything

Risks

• High cost ($4,000–$9,000 is typical for a full-service cross-country move)
• Must trust movers with your belongings

Payoffs

• Save time, energy, and stress
• Reduce risk of damage to home or items
• Focus on your life, job, or goodbyes

When It’s Worth It

If you’re on a tight schedule, moving for a job, or have high-value items like instruments or equipment, professional movers can be a smart investment. Even hiring help just to load/unload (a “hybrid move”) can save you a ton of effort.

Other Budget-Friendly Tactics

Rent a Trailer (Tow It Yourself)

If you have a vehicle that can tow, this is often cheaper than renting a truck. Just be sure your car’s towing capacity can handle it — and balance your load to avoid sway.

Use a Moving Container

Companies like PODS or U-Pack deliver a container to your home. You pack it, they ship it. These cost less than full-service moves and save you the long drive.

Declutter Before You Go

Sell or donate heavy or cheap-to-replace furniture. You’ll lower costs and simplify your life. Pro tip: use that cash to furnish your new space on Facebook Marketplace.

Packing & Labeling Tips

• Declutter first. Don’t pay to move stuff you don’t need.
• Use small boxes for heavy items (books) and large boxes for light ones (pillows).
• Wrap breakables in clothing, towels, or bubble wrap.
• Color-code or clearly label boxes by room.
• Keep an inventory to track boxes and make insurance claims easier.
• Pack an essentials box for your first night (toiletries, phone chargers, snacks).

Sample Inventory Table

Use this table to estimate what size truck or container you’ll need. It also helps with loading order and damage prevention.

Final Thoughts

Cross-country moves aren’t easy — but with the right planning, they don’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you go full D.I.Y., minimalist, or treat yourself to pro movers, the key is knowing your limits and planning accordingly.

And if your budget allows, hiring a professional moving service (like ours) — especially one that offers packing — can take the pressure off completely. You’ll arrive at your new home with energy to spare and memories worth keeping.

Here’s to your smooth and budget-friendly move — and the start of an exciting new chapter. 🚚✨