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For some people, moving to a new place is exciting and offers a fresh start. But for most people, it’s a pain in the you-know-what. The idea of packing up everything you own, finding (and paying) someone to transport it, and then having to unwrap and unpack it all again is daunting. Add to this the jaw-dropping cost to move, and it’s easy to see why it makes people shudder.
Move.com suggests the average cost to move long-distance is $4,890 and in-state will cost you about $1,250. To get a more accurate idea of what your move will cost, use Move.com’s handy moving cost calculator. The odds are good that the number will cause a few gasps, so how can you save money when you move to a new house?
1. Try To Time Your Move with the Slow Season
You know how when you want to save money on a vacation the recommendation is to travel to your destination off-season? (For example, going to the beach in the fall or winter.) Well, moving is similar, with busy seasons and slow periods. Typically, the slow season is in the winter, so if possible, time your move to coincide with this time of year.
If waiting until winter isn’t possible, at least try to push your move to mid-month. The end of the month is notoriously busy for movers, so try to get out of that hectic window. Another benefit to moving during a less chaotic time is you’ll likely have a better chance of getting the day and time you want, as long as you don’t schedule at the last minute.
2. Declutter Before You Move
Decluttering before you start the moving process has so many benefits. It helps you take stock of what’s really important to you, reinforces the idea of a fresh start, and saves you a lot of time and money. Think about it. If you get rid of a bunch of stuff before you move, that’s fewer items you need to pack and pay someone to haul.
Sell items to earn some money to put toward your move. Or donate items to get a nice tax deduction. If you get rid of large items, like furniture, contact The Salvation Army or a similar local charity to schedule a pickup, making the whole process a breeze.
3. Gather Supplies Ahead of Time
Don’t wait until the last minute to get what you need to pack. If you wait, you’ll end up needing to buy boxes and other wrapping supplies, which is a waste of money.
Several months before your move, start spreading the word to family, neighbors, friends, co-workers, etc. Ask them to send their empty boxes, package fillers, and old newspapers your way.
4. Get an Accurate Quote from Moving Companies
When finding a moving company, provide precise information and ask for specific rates for your situation. If a company only offers rough estimates, this can lead to inflated pricing on the day of your actual move. Make sure the fees and rates are clear and also factor in tipping if you plan to do so.
Although you’re not required to tip, it’s nice to offer $15 to $20 per mover if they do a good job. However, some companies prohibit their employees from accepting tips, so read through the policies and know what to budget for your move beforehand.
5. Assume a Few DIY Moving Tasks
Don’t pay movers to take apart and reassemble furniture items or wrap, pack and unpack your things. You can save between 10% and 15% of the moving price if you do these things yourself. Plus, you likely have less chance of items getting broken if you handle the wrapping and packing. Enlist a few friends to help and pick up the tab for a pizza and packing party.
Money-Saving Moves for Your Upcoming Move
Instead of hounding your friends with trucks to help you move, start saving and use these tips to reduce your overall moving costs. Giving yourself more time to plan and stay flexible is one of the best ways to keep your budget in check.
If you need help looking for your next home, visit: https://cbhre.com/listings/my-company-s-active-listings
Looking for more organizing tips and tricks? Check out, https://cbhre.com/category/tipstricks
