5 Moving Tips to Save You Money
Moving is a massive undertaking. Beyond the cost of your new place, you have to factor in how much it’s going to cost you to move all your stuff. If you’re not careful, your move can send your budget completely out of whack. Check out these five tips that will help you save money during your move!
1. Solidify And Stick To A Budget
The first step of a successful move is making a budget and getting clear on the actual cost of moving. If you’re not sure what you need to be moved, it’s hard for moving companies to give you an accurate estimate. Start by identifying all the items that you’ll need to move in a truck. The amount of stuff you have and when you decide to move will determine the trust cost of your move.
Don’t forget to include packing services, fuel surcharges and travel time in your budget. Creating a budget helps prevent unexpected causes from sneaking up on you. Budgeting also ensures you have enough money after your move for your regular expenses.
2. Use As Many Of Your Own Boxes As Possible
Moving companies are more than happy to give you boxes, but you’ll have to pay for them. Boxes are often an unnecessary use of your resources since you can usually find a bunch of free boxes. Sourcing your own boxes helps make your move more economical.
If you’re looking for a place to get free boxes try the liquor store. Usually, your local liquor store will have a ton of empty boxes from their shipments. You can also ask grocery stores, drug stores, and local businesses if they have any extra boxes you can take off their hands. Office equipment stores and printing stores may have extra boxes from all the copy-paper they purchase.
3. Compare At Least A Few Moving Companies Before Making A Decision
Going with the first option you see is usually going to cost you more money. You should compare at least three different companies before making a final decision. The most important factors to consider is the prices, the type of services they offer and your gut feeling.
It’s also a good idea to compare the reputation of different companies. You can find out about a company’s reputation by reading reviews and contacting the BBB to see if complaints have been made. The company’s responsiveness, availability and willingness to help you will also tell you if they are a company you should deal with.
4. Schedule Your Move In The Offseason
Simply adjusting when you decide to move can save you money. When you move at busy times of the year, moving companies charge more. Usually, the summer is the worst time to move. Weekends also tend to be busier so you can save money by moving during the week.
5. Get Rid Of Stuff You Don’t Need
A lot of moving companies charge by weight, so it’s worth it to get rid of some stuff you don’t need. It makes no sense to clutter up your new home with junk so make sure you’re setting things aside to get rid of while you’re packing.
A lot of charities will be happy to receive some of your old stuff. Old kitchenware, electronics, children’s toys and furniture are all welcomed donations. If you have enough time before your move, you can also hold a garage sale.
Keep these four tips in mind while preparing for your move. Making a budget, comparing moving companies and getting rid of your extra stuff will help you save money while moving. Getting prepared and staying organized will help you save money during a move!
