Generally, moving your belongings on your own is the cheapest way to go. This depends largely on how many belongings you need to bring. Those with only few belongings and no furniture can typically pack up a personal car, SUV or truck and be on their way. Other options such as selling your old furniture and larger items, and purchasing new items upon arrival are ideal, especially if you don't have the resources to rent a moving truck or hire other services. Roof-rack mounted storage containers can also be purchased or rented if you require additional space.
For individuals or couples with only average household belongings, packing up a car, truck or SUV and attaching an enclosed trailer is an ideal option. The vehicle can be packed as full as safely possible, and the trailer can be loaded with heavy items such as beds, bookshelves, and living-room furniture. These trailers are available for purchase, or you can rent a trailer from several moving companies. You must have a vehicle capable of towing a trailer to use this option.
For families or those with many belongings too large to fit in a trailer, packing a moving truck and driving it yourself should be considered. Several sizes of moving trucks are available from several moving companies such as Uhaul, Ryder, Budget Rental, Penske Truck Rental and many more. With this option, you can pack your own belongings and not worry about hired movers breaking your possessions when packing or driving. An additional trailer can be attached to the truck for moving your personal vehicle as well. Gas can be the greatest expense with this moving option, along with hotels and food along the trip, depending on how far you have to travel.
For those moving long distance, moving companies can be hired to load your belongings in a truck and drive to your new home. This places the task of moving and all the responsibility for delivering the items safely in the hands of the moving company. This option is generally used by those who need to get to their destination quickly, and simply don't have the time to make the move. This option typically only requires packing your belongings and waiting for the moving company to arrive and load the truck, though it is generally the most expensive. Some individuals drive their car with a few belongings to the destination ahead of the moving company. Some also fly to the destination ahead of time to await the movers.
Somewhat like hiring a moving company, a cargo container can be rented or purchased for storing belongings. These containers are generally delivered to your home via a truck for you to load yourself. The company will then transport the cargo box to your new destination when you are ready to move. Some of these container services offer loading or unloading help if requested.
