Tips to Save Money When Moving

Everyone has had that dreaded feeling when they are about to move to their new apartment or home.  Packing can be a disaster, finding the time in your busy schedule can be difficult, and cost of moving your possession from one place to another can put a strain on your budget.  The following are some tips and tricks to make the process of moving not only easy for your peace of mind but also for your bank account. First, one of the best things that you could do is to be organized and keep a positive attitude during the entire process.

Get Rid of your Junk

Many moving companies base their fees on factors such as cargo weight and the number of vehicles provided.  Therefore, a move is a good excuse to get rid of the old and unused items that you have been meaning to but haven’t gotten around to yet.  As a result, you will end up moving less possessions, saving money on moving costs, and you will even have more space in your new place. A thoughtful way to lighten the load that you are moving is donating some of your things to charity.  There are ways that you might be able to earn a tax deduction by donating to charity.  Alternatively, you could also sell some of your unwanted belongings to earn some extra cash.

Find Free Boxes

Why pay for something when you can get it free? If a move is in your future, start saving large boxes from everyday purchases now.  You can also get boxes from local businesses, especially liquor stores, drugstores, grocery stores and offices. All you have to do is ask. Remember, if you hire movers, you may have to buy boxes from them, especially when packing valuable items. Similarly, you can cut costs by packing your items yourself instead of paying movers to do so. Wrapping belongings in thick towels, blankets, sheets, comforters and old newspapers can eliminate the need to purchase Bubble Wrap and plastic foam packing peanuts. Just make sure to pack and unpack carefully.

Move During the Offseason

Save money by scheduling your move between September and May, when rates tend to be lowest.  Yes, this is not always possible when you have a lease that is up during the prime season of moving but it is something to consider when you are closing on a new home or moving into your first apartment.  Also, it could also save money by simply moving during the week compared to the weekend when most are planning their moves.

Let Someone Else Do the Driving

Some people dislike the idea of renting and driving a big truck across the country — or even across town — to move their belongings. If you don’t have the stomach for such driving, yet don’t want to pay the full price of a professional mover, consider looking around for a moving company that will provide a transport-only option.  Some moving companies will drop off a storage container at your residence and let you fill it over several days or weeks. Once you’re ready, the company will pick up the container and drive it to its destination. You then will be responsible for unloading the contents and moving them into your new place.  Although a service like this will put a small dent in your wallet, it shouldn’t cost you as much as hiring professional movers.

Get Several Estimates

Prices among movers may vary, so get several estimates.  When comparing multiple bids on moving costs, you should consider the price, the services included, and reviews of the companies among other categories.  In end, the third quote you get may save you a nice chunk of money compared if you were to just take the first bid you were offered without testing out the market.

Overall, best of luck on your next move!