Summer is the most popular time of the year to move, especially once kids are in the picture, so they don't need to change schools in the middle of the year. Since so many people are moving right now (I myself have a few close friends moving within the next week) I thought these money saving moving tips would be helpful.
There are few things that scream “unexpected expenses” louder than making a big move from one place to another. However, as long as you plan ahead, you can both save dramatically and reduce the stress associated with leaving an old life behind. Planning is an invaluable hedge against unplanned problems. Let’s dive right in.
Start Planning The Minute You Know You Intend To Move
There are many ways to save money when moving, whether it's your first time or you've done it a million times. One way to save money is by packing yourself instead of hiring a professional moving company. You can buy packing materials like boxes, tape, and bubble wrap relatively cheaply, and it'll save you from having to pay for a mover.
One more note on packing your own belongings: This can be a lot of work, but it can save you a lot of money in the long run. You can also save money by renting a truck or trailer instead of hiring a moving company. This can be a bit more work, but it can be a great way to save money. Finally, try to plan your move for a time when rates are low. Many moving companies offer discounts for moves that are booked during certain times of the year.
Sell Some Of Your Stuff For On-Hand Cash
It can be costly to move all of your belongings, so it's important to get rid of as much as possible before you start packing. Here are some tips for getting rid of stuff before you make the big move:
- Have a yard sale or garage sale.
- Sell your belongings online.
- Donate your belongings to a charity or thrift store.
- Recycle or throw away your belongings.
Compare Prices Of Moving Companies For The Best Deal
When it comes time to move, one of the most important things to do is compare prices and services of different moving companies. Prices can vary greatly from company to company, so it’s important to shop around and find the best deal. You also want to make sure you choose a company that has a good reputation and offers quality services.
It is imperative that you make sure there are no hidden fees in the services of the company you choose. This is why vetting the contract carefully is so important, and why any substantial differences in prices between companies should be looked at with suspicion.
Unpacking And Storage
Unpacking after a big move can be a daunting task. However, there are ways to save money while packing and unpacking. For example, you can save money by packing your belongings in garbage bags. This is a quick and easy way to facilitate moving your belongings, and it will also save you money. [Note from Penny: Make sure if you do this that you label the bags so no one inadvertently throws it out thinking it is trash.]
Another way to save money is to rent a storage unit. This will allow you to store your belongings until you are ready to move into your new home - upon which you can better unpack slowly the things you need the most.
Finally, you can save money by using recycled materials. This includes using old newspapers and magazines as packing material. You can also use old clothes and towels as padding for your boxes. By using recycled materials, you can save money and help the environment.
Do Not Forget To Cancel Utilities
One way to save money when moving is to cancel all of your utilities before you move. This includes your electricity, gas, water and cable. If you can live without these services for a couple of months, you can save a lot of money. Just be sure to have everything canceled in time so that you don't get charged for the next month's service. If at all possible, use your mobile phone for the internet for 1-2 months before you get to the new place.
Even better, you may be able to get in on one of the many deals that providers have for newcomers. You can use these savings to offset several months' worth of cable and internet at your new place - just make sure to shut off the utilities at the old place first.
Hopefully all of these tips save you money, as well as reduce the normal stresses involved with leaving the old and entering the new.
Finally, you can save money by using recycled materials. This includes using old newspapers and magazines as packing material. You can also use old clothes and towels as padding for your boxes. By using recycled materials, you can save money and help the environment.
Do Not Forget To Cancel Utilities
One way to save money when moving is to cancel all of your utilities before you move. This includes your electricity, gas, water and cable. If you can live without these services for a couple of months, you can save a lot of money. Just be sure to have everything canceled in time so that you don't get charged for the next month's service. If at all possible, use your mobile phone for the internet for 1-2 months before you get to the new place.
Even better, you may be able to get in on one of the many deals that providers have for newcomers. You can use these savings to offset several months' worth of cable and internet at your new place - just make sure to shut off the utilities at the old place first.
Hopefully all of these tips save you money, as well as reduce the normal stresses involved with leaving the old and entering the new.