Moving to a new house or apartment is an exciting time. It’s a sign of change, of new things to come. One thing that’s often overlooked in the moving process, though, is its price tag. Here are a few things to think about when relocating that can save you some real money.
Get your Hands Dirty
Before your quick-typing fingers lead you to a Google search of moving companies in your area, consider what you can do yourself. As with many things, you can create some great savings for yourself if you decide to put in some extra time and elbow grease.
Think about getting your friends to help you out. Offering beer and pizza worked in college… who’s to say anything has changed? If you have teenage kids, see if their friends can help. You can probably hire them for a low price, and they’ll be grateful for some gas money.
Trucks and Pods
Instead of hiring a moving company to work for you, could you manage with simply renting a moving truck, such as a U-Haul? Keep the price of truck sizes and gas in mind when choosing. The earlier you book a truck, the better selection you’ll have.
Also, you may want to consider a pod. The pod, also known as a cube, is dropped off at your house. You will be responsible for filling it. The pod will be picked up and delivered to your new location, wherever that may be.
Whether you choose a moving truck, a pod or an actual moving company, be sure you’ve done your research and have found the most cost-effective option.
Moving Companies
You may still find that you need to hire professional movers. If this is the case, make sure to shop around and find one that you trust. By comparing prices, you’re sure to save some money.
Be on the lookout for scams; read the contracts before you sign! Be wary of any blank spaces they can fill in later. The further ahead you plan, the more likely you’ll be to find cheaper prices and the more time you’ll have to read the contracts. You can call companies to get quotes, and be sure to ask about extra charges they may apply. These charges could be for anything from moving certain items, like a piano, to spending extra for needing the items flown.
Timing
Most people move at the end of the month, so moving companies will be busier during these times. You may not have a choice, but if you can do it in the middle of the month you may be eligible for discounts from the moving company.
The time of year can matter, too. Often moving companies have cheaper rates between October and May, when business is slower. If you have control over when you move, waiting a few weeks or months might be the frugal choice.
If You Can Get It For Free… Do.
Apart from labor, there are other things you can get for free. Instead of renting a dolly, your neighbor or friend might have one. You need cardboard boxes? Stop by some restaurants and grocery stores and ask if they’ll let you have some for free. Don’t go buying bubble wrap, either. Try using clothes and towels. You’ll save money by avoiding an unnecessary purchase.
Trim the Fat
As you pack your life’s belongings into the back of a truck, you’ve found the perfect opportunity to get rid of things you don’t need. It will save you money to get rid of something now instead of wasting time and money to move it to your new home. If you have enough items that you want to get rid of, a garage sale might be smart. Otherwise you can do your good deed for the day and donate the items, perhaps to Goodwill. (This will also qualify for a tax deduction. More savings!)
Saving money while moving takes research and planning. Budget your move. Strategize. Find ways to save money by looking for cheaper options or by spending energy and time instead. Do you have any ideas to save money on relocation? Share them here!
