Top 10 Ways to Save Money When Moving on a Budget
Moving can be an expensive undertaking, no matter how you look at it. To reduce your overall moving cost and make the process more affordable, think about these 10 money-saving tips the next time you’re planning to pack up and hit the road. From opting for do-it-yourself storage instead of renting a truck to selling your unwanted belongings on Craigslist before you move, these ideas can help you save time, money and stress when moving on a budget.
1) Do your research
It can be hard to plan for how much you’ll need for moving costs. But it’s never too early to start saving up for what could be one of the most expensive expenses in your life. Here are some ways you can save when it comes time to move:
Get quotes from more than one moving company and ask about discounts they may offer if you pay ahead of time or in cash, instead of paying by check or credit card.
2) Consider financial incentives before you move
Moving doesn’t have to break your bank account. Here are some of the top ways to save money when moving -Ask friends and family for help: Free is always better than not free! Make sure you’re not taking on too much work or risk straining your relationships by asking for help.
Donate or sell furniture and appliances before you move. You can earn cash for things that you don’t want to bring with you and make room in your new home for the items that you do want to bring. Be sure that these items are in good condition before donating or selling them, though!
3) Move in the off-season
As the cost of housing continues to rise, many people find themselves moving every few years. One way to save money while moving is by doing it in the off-season. The best time to move during the year is from October through April, as this allows you to avoid most of the stormy weather and is also when heating costs are at their lowest for those in cold climates. This will not only help you save money now, but it may also prevent future problems with your home’s central heating system.
4) Compare removal quotes
There are plenty of moving removal companies to choose from, but the main factor that is going to determine which company you use is their cost. Here are some top tips for how to save money when moving:
Get an idea of the size and scope of your move so that you can estimate the total number of hours required and then select a removal company based off their hourly rate.
5) Pack smartly
The best way to save money when moving is by packing smartly. This means using boxes that are the right size for the items you’re packing so that you don’t have to buy expensive packaging materials like bubble wrap, foam peanuts, and newspaper, which can really add up. It also means making sure you purchase an affordable home rental truck for your move and divvy out as much of your budget as possible before the move date.
6) Do an inventory before you move
Moving is always stressful, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Follow these five tips before you make your big move and you might be surprised how easy and inexpensive moving can be. One way to save money when moving is to take pictures of each room in your house and then label them with what they are used for.
Make sure you take pictures of furniture as well because otherwise you may forget which items go where! Another tip for how to save money when moving: if there’s an appliance that will work in the new home, bring it along instead of buying a new one. We recommend taking this advice especially with your washer and dryer-they’re usually expensive!
7) Wrap it up with some tape!
Moving is expensive! Unless you’re planning your move by yourself, which we do not recommend, you’ll be paying up front. Even if you find an affordable moving company, the estimate can easily increase depending on the mileage, fuel prices and other variables that come into play. It’s important to know how to save money when moving and keep your budget in check because those last mile charges are sure to creep up when you least expect them.
8) Get free boxes from your local library
So, you’re moving and you want to save some money in the process? Great! Start by checking with your local library – they often have old bookshelves, which come in handy when trying to pack. Plus, since many libraries are public institutions, most don’t charge anything for a box. You can take them home or ask the library staff for assistance. They’re usually happy to help!
9) Do some online research if you can’t pack all on your own.
It can take some time and energy, but trying your hand at packing your own move can save you both. With that in mind, here are some tips for packing up without losing sleep or breaking the bank:
Start as early as possible. Packing takes more time than you might expect.Do what you can ahead of time, like cleaning out the kitchen cabinets so they don’t get lost in transit. Pack all breakable items with bubble wrap and label them Fragile.Pack your car last, when it’s nearly empty so it doesn’t fill with packing material while driving.
10) Finally – follow our advice!
Make a packing list – without this, you will find yourself spending an extra hour or two running around trying to get everything you need together. Double and triple check that you have what you need before heading out the door, and plan for any extra things that may come up in the future! Figure out how much it’s going to cost before loading your car – many people forget about the hidden costs of moving like gas, tolls, parking fees, and more.
Conclusion
I hope these tips helped you, and I wish you all the best with your move! Remember that while there are always exceptions and things that you can’t control, preparing as much as possible will go a long way. You’ll be able to save more money and have less stress because of it. Some items will inevitably be forgotten but don’t worry about them too much. As long as you’re prepared for the bulk of your move and take care not to miss anything, then you’re doing everything right! Good luck on your upcoming relocation!
