How much can I realistically save by downsizing before a long-distance move?

[Amiliaa]

I’ve been packing up my apartment for a move from Oregon to North Carolina, and I’m starting to wonder how much I could actually save if I ditched some of my furniture instead of hauling everything across the country. I’ve got a few heavy items — like a sectional couch and a big dresser — that I don’t love, but they’re still in decent shape. Has anyone downsized significantly before a move like this? I’m debating whether it’s worth selling and rebuying once I’m settled, or just paying to ship it all. Curious how this plays out in real numbers for people.

[Emma45]

Good question — I had the same dilemma when I moved from Michigan to Colorado a couple of years ago. I ended up selling my big items on Facebook Marketplace and only brought what I could fit in a mid-size moving container. Not only did I save around $700 on transport, but it also made unpacking a lot easier. If you’re trying to figure out the cheapest way to move cross country, downsizing definitely helps, especially if you’re flexible about replacing stuff later. I found the best guide, i think that breaks down the costs and strategies really clearly — worth checking out if you’re still weighing your options.

[Aurelia]

This thread caught my eye because I’ve always wondered how much of what we move we actually need. I’ve helped friends pack and it always surprises me how many things people bring “just in case” and then never touch again. Honestly, even from a minimalism perspective, downsizing before a move feels like a smart reset. Just an observation from someone who’s seen a lot of moving chaos!

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