Moving can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. It’s possible to save money when moving by knowing how to do it smartly. Check out these ten tips for saving money when moving below. You may find that you can afford to move even further away from your old residence!
1. Look for Available Discounts from Moving Companies
Most moving companies offer some discounts for senior citizens or people who need assistance with their move. In addition, a reliable moving company will often have other discounts available for loyal customers, students, and even military personnel.
Call around to different moving companies in your area and ask about any discount programs they may be running. The more you save on your move, the more money you’ll have leftover to furnish your new home!
2. Don’t Move Items you any Longer Need
If you’re moving from one home to another, you’re probably going to have a lot of stuff. If there are items that you don’t need, sell them. Even better, donate them if they still work. Free up space in your new home and clear out your garage or basement all at once.
So, before hiring movers, take an inventory of what you need to move and stick to it. It will save you money on boxes and tape, including gas money. It will also help you avoid having too much stuff in your new place.
3. Use Newspapers, Blankets, and Bubble Wrap
You can improvise and wrap fragile items in newspapers, blankets, or bubble wrap. It will help prevent them from getting damaged during transit. Make sure you pack these items tightly so they don’t move around too much. Using these materials to wrap up your valuables will protect them and save you money since the newspaper is cheaper than packing paper.
4. Book Your Moving Company In Advance as Far as Possible
You’ll likely get a lower price if you book your moving company much earlier before your moving day. However, if you book too close to your move date, some companies may not be able to accommodate you and may even jack up their prices to fill their open slots.
Find out if there are additional fees for booking with short notice. Are they non-refundable? If you can wait longer than expected, what happens if rates go down? These questions will help you determine whether it’s worth it to wait or jump on a deal when it comes along.
5. Take Advantage Of Dump Runs And Haul Away Companies
One of my favorite ways to save money on the move is by taking advantage of dump runs or haul-away companies. These companies will pick up and dispose of just about anything for cheap or free. These include old furniture, appliances, mattresses, carpeting, and anything else you don’t want anymore.
All you have to do is call them and schedule a time they can come out. It’s as easy as that! Just be sure not to throw garbage in with your stuff because they won’t take it if it has litter!
6. Move During the Off-Season
Some moving companies will give you a better deal on your move if you book it during their off-season. If your moving company has an off-season, ask them when is best for your move. If they don’t have one, maybe check out the competitor’s prices at that time of year.
Make sure you call around and compare quotes. The most expensive quotation doesn’t always mean they are the best. It can tell that they think you can afford it or need more help than others. Also, make sure you get everything in writing and read over all paperwork before signing anything. Don’t forget to read any fine print carefully too! That could be where some hidden fees are hiding!
7. Source Used Moving Boxes from Local Businesses
If you’re moving on a budget, don’t be afraid to ask local businesses if they have any extra boxes. Restaurants, grocery stores, and big-box stores often get multiple deliveries each day; these boxes usually end up in recycling or landfills at the end of each day. Get permission from your business contact before grabbing anything, though, and make sure everything is clean. It can save you money without sacrificing an excessive amount of time.
8. Pack Efficiently and Smartly
Packing your items efficiently and smartly helps optimize each packaging container, thus reducing the overall number of packages. The strategy can save you money on shipping costs because it allows you to get more in each box, which means fewer boxes overall. It also saves time because it takes less time to pack and unpack fewer boxes so that you can move into your new home faster.
However, you will need suitable containers to take advantage of these packing techniques. For example, if you have many books or CDs, consider investing in bookcases or CD storage units that allow you to maximize space. Or use plastic bins for smaller items such as towels or linens that won’t fit into traditional moving boxes but still require protection during transit.
9. Ask for Help from Friends
Don’t try to do it all yourself. You will save time and avoid burning out or injuring yourself with a strenuous move. Friends and family can also help identify possible money-saving tips and opportunities (e.g., Are you sure we need all of these boxes?). Plus, friends are more likely than strangers to return items you forgot when packing up your old place!
10. Buy In Bulk
When you buy in bulk, you get more bang for your buck. You can get great discounts on packaging materials when you purchase large quantities. If you are moving a lot of things, it’s worth taking advantage of these savings! However, make sure that what you’re buying is something that will last a long time or has multiple uses—otherwise, it might not be worth it. Buy your supplies in bulk, and don’t be afraid to ask if there’s some wiggle room in terms of price when purchasing in bulk or getting multiple items.
Conclusion
Taking measures that can help you save money when moving is a great move, as it will allow you to put more of your hard-earned cash into essential things, such as paying off debt or surprising your loved ones with gifts. If you are looking for ways to save money when moving, plenty of options are available. Start by researching local movers and comparing their rates, then ensure that all of your belongings are safe with adequate insurance coverage. Once everything has been taken care of, pack up your stuff and get ready for a new start!