How To Save Money While You're Moving
While moving into a new home in certainly an exciting time, it can also be an expensive one. Aside from the fact that purchasing a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make, the costs associated with the move itself can accumulate pretty quickly.
So:
What’s the secret to minimizing your out-of-pocket expenses? Proactive planning.
By exercising a little effort in the months leading up to your move, you can appropriately budget for moving costs and implement some effective cost-cutting measures to ensure you’re getting the best bang for your buck. Here’s how you can do that!
Consider Moving Off-Season
During peak season - end of spring till early fall - moving companies tend to quote higher prices for their services due to the high demand and have fewer days available that may work with your schedule.
By planning for an out-of-season move, you’ll be able to take advantage of price drops in moving services and know that you will have plenty of days to choose from that will suit your schedule perfectly.
Declutter, Sell or Donate Belongings
The best thing you can do for yourself prior to your move is to declutter your space. Chances are, you’ve accumulated items over the years that you don’t use or don’t need. By downsizing your possessions, you’ll reduce your average moving costs from both an hourly and overall weight perspective.
In the months prior to your official move date, begin organizing all your belongings. Start by tossing out blankets or items that are worn, broken, etc. For items that are in good condition, you can either sell your possessions through channels like Craigslist or donate them to a local charity.
Consider holding a garage sale or using digital means to sell unneeded belongings will help you stockpile some extra cash for your move since we all know moves can be expensive.
Consider Renting a Moving Truck
Want help packing your belongings, but feel comfortable transporting everything yourself? Then you may want to look into renting a moving truck. This is especially true for those who live in small apartments or don’t have a ton of big items, such as appliances or furniture, to move.
This cost-effective solution will certainly make your piggy bank smile, even though it is more labor-intensive on your part. To maximize your use of the rented truck, make sure to have all your belongings boxed up and ready to be carted onto the vehicle before it arrives.
This way, you can hit the road sooner and minimize the hours you’re charged for.
Get Creative with Packing Supplies
Purchasing all your packing supplies will add up to a pretty hefty bill. Instead, visit local department stores, grocery stores, and office supply shops to collect discarded boxes and supplies.
Additionally:
There are many items inside your home or apartment that you can leverage to pack your belongings.
For instance, you can use suitcases and containers to safely store your items and use blankets and towels to cushion and wrap any fragile items you’re packing since you’ll be packing these items anyway. Grabbing free newspapers is also a great no-cost way to not only pack, but protect your items during transportation.
When it comes to making a move, following these strategies will help you conserve dollars and keep costs low. Additionally, by truly taking the time to plan in advance, it’ll help make the entire move less stressful.
