The Pros and Cons of Moving With Your Vehicle

How to move long distances with your car

Want to move for less money? Moving in your own vehicle is one effective approach to accomplish this. This way of moving removes the expense of renting a truck or hiring a moving company, both of which are not exactly inexpensive. For a long-distance move, renting a 10- to 12-foot moving truck can cost around $1,600. Full-service interstate moving companies can charge up to $6,000 or more. You’ll save money by moving with your own vehicle, avoiding rental fees, and moving insurance premiums.

Driving vs. shipping your car,” you’ll need to weigh factors like the distance of your move, the condition of your vehicle, and your comfort level with long-distance driving. Probably one of the biggest obstacles that could come your way when making a long-distance move is having to relocate with one or more cars. Moving your car to your new location can be so costly it is no wonder that people who move end up either selling or donating their vehicles locally. If you do not want to part ways with your vehicle, you may be tempted to drive your own car across the states.

However, this option has its challenges; the cost can escalate quickly depending on the distance, due to fuel and toll expenses. In addition, the durability of your vehicle and its age could either work for you or against you.

Is it cheaper to ship or drive when moving?

Several factors, including the distance of the move, the weight of your belongings, and the cost of gas and hotel, determine whether shipping or driving is more cost-effective when moving. Driving may generally be more economical for shorter moves, whereas shipping may be more economical for longer moves.

You should consider both the cost of shipping and the cost of packing and crating your belongings when shipping. The distance of the move, as well as the size and weight of your belongings, can affect the shipping expenses.

When driving, you should account for the cost of gas, meals, and housing as well as the depreciation of your car. For a car with an average fuel efficiency of 25 miles per gallon, a 1,000-mile trip would require approximately 40 gallons of gas.

Moving in a Car

There are many steps that you have to take should you decide to move with your car. One of the first things that you have to do is to make sure that your car passes the emissions and safety standard tests. Since these tests are different in every state that you go to, it would be wise to call up your Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and get more information as it pertains to the cost factor of the tests and other requirements to make your move possible.

Pros of moving with your vehicle:

Convenience: Moving with your own automobile eliminates the need to hire a shipping company or use public transportation because you have access to your personal transportation whenever you need it.

You won’t have to worry about coordinating schedules or waiting for other people to come when you have a personal vehicle. You can just load up your belongings and go whenever you’re ready.

Moving with a vehicle gives you more flexibility with your schedule and more space for the stuff you want to take. This can be especially useful if you’re relocating a lot of things or have large items that would be tough to haul in a rental truck.

Packing your stuff in your own car: One of the most important benefits of moving by car is that you have complete control over the packing process. Use unusual tricks when packing your car, like using vacuum bags for clothes, to maximize space for a long-distance move. You can pack your belongings in your car any way you like in your own car without worrying about anyone else touching them. This ensures that your goods are securely and safely packaged for the journey. 

Familiarity: Driving your own automobile could be more comfortable and familiar than renting one in a strange place. You won’t have to worry about getting used to a new car or a bigger moving truck, which can be difficult if you’re not used to driving them.

Being comfortable and confident behind the wheel of your car can help you when you’re driving. You are well aware of the car’s capabilities and limitations, as well as how it responds to various driving circumstances.

Cost-effective:  Moving with your own vehicle can be more affordable than booking flights or shipping services. If you’re moving a long way, the expense of renting a moving truck or hiring professional movers might soon add up. You can save money on these expenses and spare yourself the headache of dealing with rental companies or moving services by driving your own vehicle. During the holidays, moving with your own vehicle can be particularly advantageous as professional moving services often hike their prices.

Using your own vehicle might help you save money on additional moving expenses like packing supplies and gas in addition to rental fees. It can be less expensive to pack your stuff in your car or truck with your own boxes and packing materials than purchasing them from a moving company.

Timeline control:  Moving with your own car gives you greater control over your schedule, allowing for breaks or detours as needed.

This reduces the risk of damage and assures you that your belongings are safe. Additionally, you can readily retrieve your belongings and make sure they remain safe during the remainder of the journey if you need to make stops en route to your new residence.

Cons of moving with your vehicle:

Additional expenses: Driving a long distance can be expensive, particularly when you account for gas, food, and housing expenses.

Wear and tear on the vehicle: Driving a long distance might cause your car to lose more traction and develop other problems, potentially raising the expense of maintenance and repairs.

Damage risk: Traveling a considerable distance in your car puts it at greater risk for accidents and poor weather.

Stress: Driving long distances can be stressful, particularly if you don’t know the way or are navigating a new area. Curating a playlist of your favorite road trip songs can make the long drive more enjoyable and less stressful.

What to Expect When Moving With Your Vehicle

Moving with your car might be a practical and economical alternative, but it’s necessary to be prepared before you start driving. Make sure your car is in good shape and prepared for a lengthy journey beforehand. This can entail changing the oil, checking the tire pressure, and ensuring that all the lights and signals are operational.

Additionally, you’ll need to be ready for potential difficulties like traffic, bad weather, and road closures. It’s a good idea to prepare a backup strategy in case something goes wrong, such as a different route or a place to stay in case you become stranded on the road.

Calculating the Cost of Moving With Your Vehicle

Start with calculating the overall distance of your relocation and the cost of gas per mile for your vehicle to determine the cost of moving with your car. You should also consider additional costs like hotels if you need to stay overnight during the move. You might also want to account for the price of meals and snacks for the trip if you’re traveling a long distance. Packing your own food for the journey allows you to cut down on meal expenses, giving you more control over your moving budget.

Compare the total estimated cost of your move to other options, such as hiring professional movers or renting a moving truck. Even though moving with your car can be affordable, depending on your particular situation, it might not always be the best choice.

Consider Insurance

Next, you would also need to adjust your insurance, since moving to a new state can either inflate or deflate your insurance costs. Once you get the insurance and safety standard tests out of the way, then you are ready to choose your moving options. One of the ways in which you can move your car is by employing the services of an auto mover. Car shipping services often provide options like open-air or enclosed transport, and the cost can vary based on the distance and the type of service you choose. If this is your method of choice, you should take comfort in the fact that your vehicle would be loaded on a flatbed or enclosed truck and be transported to your new location. Auto transport services can offer a hassle-free experience, especially if you’re moving cross country and want to minimize wear and tear on your vehicle.

Of course, comfort comes with a price, and using an auto mover is an expensive addition to your already large moving bill. This is because distance, the operating condition of your car, its size and weight and make and model among other things are taken into consideration before you are given a price. Then, too, we have not even included the price that you would have to pay the hauler and the insurance that they provide as well.

The Impact of Seasonal Changes on Your Move

Have you thought about the impact of the seasons on your move? The U.S. Department of Transportation states that 21% of vehicle crashes are weather-related. Seasonal shifts can seriously disrupt your plans, and it’s more than just avoiding blizzards or extreme heat. The U.S. Department of Transportation reports that around 21% of all vehicle accidents are weather-related. That’s a fact too important to overlook.

Navigating winter conditions? If you’re headed into snowy terrain, investing in winter tires is non-negotiable. These specialized tires provide enhanced traction, drastically minimizing the likelihood of accidents. But it doesn’t end with tires. Keep an eye on your vehicle’s antifreeze levels and make certain your heating system operates efficiently.

Contrastingly, if summer is the backdrop of your move and you’re venturing into warmer locales, your vehicle’s cooling system becomes indispensable. A well-maintained cooling system is essential to sidestep the risk of engine overheating. Additionally, think about installing window tints—they’re effective for shielding against both intense heat and harmful UV radiation.

Dealing with the capricious weather of spring and fall? Expect the sun one moment and a sudden downpour the next. To tackle this unpredictability, equip your vehicle with versatile all-season tires and ensure your wiper system is in prime condition. Stash a tailored emergency kit for the season in your trunk—you won’t regret it. Before you ignite the engine, take time to adapt your vehicle to the seasonal challenges ahead. This simple step could be what separates a seamless transition from a complicated ordeal.

Moving Across the Border

Moving to Canada or Mexico is a thrilling adventure, and having your own car provides flexibility and convenience. However, you must be up-to-date on the customs, laws, and regulations that apply to vehicle border crossings.

Prepare for inspections and declarations when crossing the border. Border agents may search your car for contraband or unlawful goods, so remove any suspicious or prohibited items ahead of time. In addition, get familiar with the local traffic laws and driving requirements. Speed restrictions, road signage, and driving etiquette may differ from those in the United States.

Overlooked Logistics of Moving With Pets

You’ve weighed the advantages and disadvantages of relocating with your vehicle, but what about your pets? Relocating with animals adds an extra layer of challenges. The American Veterinary Medical Association reports that 36.5% of U.S. households own a dog, and 30.4% own a cat, making pet considerations crucial for many movers. Each state has unique pet travel regulations you’ll need to know. For instance, California requires a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection for many animals. Before setting out, check the Department of Agriculture’s website for your destination state to get critical details on vaccinations, microchipping, and legal essentials. Ignoring this could lead to fines or even temporary separation from your pet.

Focusing on your furry friend’s comfort during a long drive is crucial. Assemble a go-to pet kit that includes water, food, a leash, waste bags, and any required medications. Plan to make regular stops for some leg stretching and hydration. For added safety, think about getting a pet seatbelt or a secure travel crate. If long trips are new terrain for your pet, ease them into it with shorter drives before the big move. A relaxed pet can significantly improve the overall travel experience for everyone. By following these guidelines, you’ll not only stay within legal bounds but also ensure that your pet reaches your new home in comfort.

Auto Shippers

Expert auto movers would tell you that the cost of moving a vehicle can be anything around $1100 or more. One way in which you can cut the cost is by using your own auto insurance as opposed to that of the halter. You can also abort the idea of using an auto mover and opt for a terminal-to-terminal type of service, where your car would be transferred to your new town without the extra cost. Your best bet would be to call a terminal employee who would be better able to assist you with information on this. Shipping companies often have different pricing models, so it’s essential to get multiple quotes to find the most cost-effective option for your move.

In conclusion, there are advantages and disadvantages to consider while moving with your own car. Indeed, it offers you total control over the packing process, making sure that your valuables are packed securely and safely. Additionally, it allows you the freedom to pack at your own pace without worrying about extra charges or prices, especially for short journeys. It can also be a cost-effective solution.

Your unique situation and preferences will decide if moving with your car is the best choice. Before making a choice, it’s crucial to thoroughly analyze the pros and cons. If necessary, you should also take other possibilities into account, including hiring a moving company or renting a truck.

Hidden Challenges of Moving Long Distance With Your Vehicle

Emergency Vehicle Repairs in Unfamiliar Locations
If your vehicle breaks down in an unfamiliar location, you may be at the mercy of the nearest repair shop, which could be costly or may not have the necessary parts.

Solution: Before you move, identify authorized dealers or well-rated repair shops along your route. Apps like RepairPal can help you find reputable mechanics. Keep a basic toolkit and essential spare parts like fuses, belts, and hoses in your vehicle.

Vehicle Overheating Due to Constant Heavy Load
When you’re relocating over a long distance with a fully-loaded vehicle, the ongoing weight can place additional stress on the engine, heightening the likelihood of overheating.

Solution: Before setting out on your trip, make sure to have a comprehensive vehicle check-up, paying special attention to the cooling system. Monitor the temperature gauge as you drive and pause regularly to give the engine a chance to cool off. It’s also wise to keep the spare coolant in the trunk for emergencies.

Difficulty in Monitoring Tire Pressure Consistently
Tire pressure can fluctuate due to changes in altitude and temperature, affecting your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and handling, especially when it’s loaded with belongings.

Solution: Invest in a good-quality digital tire pressure gauge and check the tire pressure at every fuel stop. Many modern vehicles also come with a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), which alerts you if any tire falls below the recommended pressure.

Risk of Theft During Overnight Stops
Stopping for the night at unfamiliar locations can expose your packed vehicle to the risk of theft, adding stress to your move.

Solution: Plan your overnight stops in advance and opt for accommodations with secure parking. Use steering wheel locks and always remove valuables from plain sight. Some GPS apps offer features that alert you if your car moves from its parked location.

Did You Know?

• The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has provisions for deducting some moving expenses if you’re relocating for work. This could include the money you spend on fuel and tolls, but you’ll need to maintain detailed records and meet specific eligibility requirements to take advantage of this.
• The make and model of your vehicle can significantly influence your moving experience. Electric vehicles, while environmentally friendly, may present challenges for long-haul moves due to sparse charging infrastructure. Conversely, larger vehicles like SUVs offer more storage space but will consume more fuel.
• Long drives aren’t just physically tiring; they can also be mentally exhausting. Research from the American Psychological Association indicates that extended periods of driving can lead to increased levels of stress and fatigue, which could impair your judgment, especially when you’re already dealing with the complexities of a move.
• Aerodynamics isn’t just for airplanes; it matters for your moving journey too. Adding a roof box or external carrier to your vehicle can alter its aerodynamics, leading to increased fuel consumption. Some research indicates that a roof box could decrease your vehicle’s fuel efficiency by as much as a quarter.
• Relocating to a region with a different climate can necessitate immediate vehicle maintenance upon arrival. For example, if you’re moving from a hot to a cold climate, you may need to switch out your vehicle’s fluids, such as oil and coolant, to types that are optimized for colder temperatures.

Choosing to move with your own vehicle comes with its own set of unique advantages and challenges. The freedom to pack and travel on your own terms is empowering, but there are hidden costs and mental strains that you might not anticipate. The secret to a smooth move lies in detailed planning, from understanding tax deductions related to moving to be aware of how even a roof box can affect your fuel efficiency. By paying attention to these lesser-known factors, you can make educated choices that not only save you money but also mitigate stress, making your entire moving process more manageable.