A long-distance move can be an expensive undertaking. But there are ways to shave hundreds or even thousands of dollars off the cost. How? Be flexible and consider all options. The good people at Transit Systems have been doing this for years and understand the business. They have prepared this list from experience and talking with hundreds of clients about their own moves. Here are five tips on how to reduce some of the costs.

Tip #1: Pay only for the space that's used. Moving companies typically dedicate a full truck to the move, but what if the move doesn't require a full truck? Consider a freight company that provides household goods transport. Each individual household load is sealed in its own section of the truck behind a locked divider. The driver won't load or unload, but moving crews can be hired to do that. And even what the cost for that labor is added in, the savings can be significant.

Tip #2: Take the DIY approach to loading and unloading. Moving companies often don't allow customers to load and unload, but it never hurts to ask. If they don't allow it, see Tip #1 above. Choosing a freight carrier and using friends and family to load and unload can cut the total cost in half.

Tip #3: Pay for insurance. Yes, strictly speaking, insurance is an expense. But it's pennywise and pound foolish to move without it. Some degree of damage is almost inevitable during a long-distance move, even if only a few scratches. Insurance saves in the long run. It may be okay for furniture restoration professionals to decline coverage, but all others are well advised to be safe.

Tip #4: Do the packing. Or at least as much of it as possible. Packing is time, and time is money. Those who are willing to spend time don't have to spend as much money.

Tip#5: Ponder, plan and prepare. This is good advice for a host of reasons, but especially cost. Think specifically about which items it's best to move and which it's best to give away, sell or discard. Create a detailed written inventory. Don't pay to move items unnecessarily.

Whether planning a move across the country, city or around the corner, frustrations abound and money may be a potential catalyst. By removing some of these additional costs from the equation, you might be able to enjoy a more cost-effective moving experience.