Moving is notoriously expensive, and even more so when moving out of state. Luckily, with a little advance planning and effort, there are specific things you can do to seriously cut down on moving costs and make your move much more affordable. Here are three great ways to cut costs when moving across the country:

Rent a Box Truck

Renting a truck and moving yourself is the best way to save money on a long-distance move, since paying professional movers typically costs thousands of dollars more than renting a truck. You will have control over how your furniture and personal items are packed and unpacked, and you won't have to worry about a mover potentially breaking something valuable.

Most moving truck rental companies make it easy and convenient to pick your truck up in one city and drop it off in another, without any hassle. Rental trucks often offer more flexible scheduling than moving companies, making your move even more hassle-free.

Downsize Before You Move

When you rent a box truck, the cost is based on size. If you were planning to declutter and downsize a bit, doing so before you move makes the most sense. You will be able to rent a smaller truck, which saves you money. Your move will be much easier, with less items to pack and unpack, and you may be able to save even more money buy renting or buying a slightly smaller home in your new city. Starting off your new life without tons of unwanted, unused belongings weighing you down will make your move feel like a fresh start at life.

Keep Track of Your Moving Expenses

While this doesn't save you money up-front, keeping track of your moving costs will make your move less expensive in the long run by allowing you to write off part of your move on your taxes. Tax deductions for moving vary a lot based on your unique situation, so it's a good idea to consult your accountant before your move, to get a good idea of how much of your move you can expect to deduct. Then, be sure to hold onto all of your receipts and keep an itemized list of your moving expenses for good measure.

By following these tips, you will be able to manage your moving costs, leaving you more funds for your new home and sightseeing along your way there. You can visit here to make your moving experience easier.