Many people underestimate how much moving costs. This can lead to overspending, especially when it comes to things like meals while on the move or petrol expenses.
A few strategic choices can help you keep your moving costs down. Try to schedule your move for a weekday rather than the weekend, or during the winter instead of the summer.
- Ask Your Neighbors For Help
While house moving can be a stressful experience, it doesn’t have to be. If you have a few extra hands, you can save money on many small tasks that are usually done by professionals.
Make sure to inform your neighbors in advance about the date of the move and the time when you’ll be there. This will save them any inconvenience and prevent any unnecessary issues.
- Rent A Moving Truck
Renting a moving truck can be expensive, especially if you’re making a long distance move. However, there are ways to save money on truck rentals and other moving costs.
For example, you can save on truck rental fees by avoiding unnecessary trips or purchasing gas at discounted prices. Also, consider moving during the off-season. This can reduce both labor and storage costs.
- Pack Your Own Boxes
A big part of saving money while moving is not buying things you don’t need. If you are tempted to buy new picture hangers, cleaners or towels for your new house, hold off until after the move.
Ask friends and family if they have any extra boxes or packing materials. You can also use household items like kitchen towels or thick socks to wrap breakables.
- Donate or Sell Your Old Stuff
Donating old things is a great way to clean out your clutter and give back to the community. Plus, it saves you money on movers by decreasing the amount of items that you need to transport.
You can donate your stuff by organizing a garage sale or hitting up your local consignment shop. Alternatively, you can sell your stuff on eBay or other online marketplaces.
- Rent A Storage Unit
A storage unit can save you a lot of money when moving. It’s especially useful for college students who have to move back home for the summer or when they are studying abroad for a year.
Be sure to research storage facilities and prices carefully. Some offer special deals and promotions during slower seasons. Also, choose the right size for your needs.
- Pack Ahead Of Time
The earlier you start packing, the less you’ll spend on your move. Declutter and donate anything you no longer need, or won’t use at your new home.
Also, ask friends and neighbors for boxes, and save paper and other packing materials from local shops, cafes, and supermarkets that get deliveries. They may be willing to let you have them for free.
- Rent A Moving Trailer
Home Depot has a number of trailer rental options that can save you money on moving costs. They are also cheaper than a truck, and they are easier to maneuver. To further reduce moving expenses, especially for bulky items, you can get your furniture delivered for less by comparing quotes from different services, ensuring both affordability and reliability.
You can save a lot of money on food during your move by eating at friends’ and family members’ houses rather than going out to restaurants. This will also help you save on hotel expenses.
- Rent A U-Haul
If you want to save money while moving, it’s important to budget. There are many online tools and apps that can help you track your expenses.
U-Haul offers a variety of rental trucks including pickups, cargo vans, U-Box containers and trailers. Just be aware that their larger trucks don’t get good gas mileage. This may add up to high fuel costs if you’re moving long distance.
- Ask For A Discount
Asking for a discount can save you a lot of money when it comes to moving. Check out online retailers for discounts on moving supplies and self storage units. Budget your money or invest in a home warranty in the new home can be beneficial down the road. “Are home warranties worth it?” Many homeowners who do have a warranty carry a peace of mind that if something breaks down in their home, it won’t cost them a ton of extra money to get things repaired or replaced.
It’s also worth thinking about redirecting your mail before you move. That way, you’ll avoid expensive fees for missing bills and letters. It’s also a good idea to cancel any subscriptions you won’t be using in your new home.
- Hire A Moving Company
Hiring a moving company can save you time and money during your move. However, you should be prepared to pay for certain extra services, such as insurance protection.
Another way to save money while moving is to move outside of the busy months. Movers often charge more between May and August. If possible, try to move between October and April. This will help you save on labor and fuel costs.