Moving is notoriously an expensive process. From packing and sorting to traveling and unboxing, the costs can quickly add up.
However, there might be some expenses associated with moving that you can eliminate entirely. For others, you can often knock them down to a reasonable cost. All it takes is a little effort and planning.
Here are five tips to save money while moving.
1. Avoid Packing Unneeded Items
Moving a lot of unnecessary items may mean you have to rent a larger moving truck than you otherwise would. It may also take movers longer to pack and unpack your belongings.
Therefore, you may pay a higher fee. You can often eliminate items you no longer need before the move by donating them, selling them, or gifting them to loved ones. Plus, if you sell them, you can even make a little money back.
2. Pack Using Household Items and Spare Boxes
It can be expensive to purchase boxes and packing materials. Reduce those expenses by taking advantage of items you have on hand.
For example, your workplace may have old boxes you can use. You may also have many items already around the house you can use to secure items and fill gaps in boxes.
Here are some examples:
- Bathroom towels
- Kitchen towels
- Clothing
- Blankets
- Pillows
- Stuffed animals
3. Take Advantage of Media Mail for Long-Distance Moving
When you are moving locally, it is probably best to transport all of your belongings in your own vehicle or have movers do it. However, a long-distance move is not always most efficient when done entirely that way.
For example, transporting a huge library of books may seem like a daunting task. The U.S. Post Office provides Media Mail service you can use to save money transporting media items like books.
When you use this service, you may be able to save money by using a smaller moving truck for your other goods.
4. Plan an Off-Season Move (When Possible)
You may not be able to choose when to move, especially if the reason is a job transfer. However, if the moving date is up to you, selecting a moving date carefully can save you hundreds of dollars.
Typically, moving companies are busiest in the spring and summer. When business slows due to seasonal changes, they often drop their rates.
The lowest rates are generally available from October through April.
5. Skip the Moving Company
Another way to save money on a move, especially when moving locally, is to avoid hiring movers entirely.
Ask friends and family members for help, instead. They may have enough free time to help you. One of your loved ones may even have a van or truck you can use to move your items.
Additionally, loved ones with past moving experience may offer other pieces of advice to help you save money while moving.
By Admin –
