Moving often comes with a hefty price tag. From hiring movers to purchasing packing supplies, the costs can quickly add up. However, with careful planning and savvy strategies, you can save money without sacrificing the quality of your move.
For instance, by decluttering before you pack, you could potentially save up to 50% on packing supplies and transportation costs. Here, we’ll share our top money-saving moving tips to help you keep more cash in your pocket.
1. Plan Ahead. Planning is not just a way to save money on your move, it’s a way to take control of your expenses. Start by creating a budget that outlines your moving expenses, including packing supplies, moving truck rental, and any additional services you may need. By knowing exactly how much you can afford to spend, you can avoid overspending and stick to your budget, giving you a sense of empowerment and confidence in your move.
2. Declutter Before You Pack. Moving is not just a task, it’s an opportunity to free yourself from unnecessary belongings. Go through your belongings and donate, sell, or discard anything you no longer want to take. The less you have to move, the less you’ll spend on packing supplies and transportation costs, and the lighter you’ll feel as you embark on your new journey.
3. Pack Yourself. While our professional packing services are top-notch and will save you time, there’s a certain satisfaction that comes with packing your belongings yourself. Start well in advance of your move date and pack a little bit each day to avoid feeling overwhelmed. You can also ask friends and family for help or look for free packing materials, such as boxes from local stores or newspapers for wrapping fragile items. By taking charge of your packing, you’ll feel more involved and accomplished in your move.
4. Supplement Moving Boxes. Blue Ox Moving & Storage offers affordable packing supplies, but buy what you need. Don’t overspend on packing supplies. Look for resources for free boxes and save money by using items you already have on hand, such as suitcases, bins, and blankets, to pack and protect some of your belongings. For online shoppers, there’s more than just convenience in having items delivered to your doorstep. You can also repurpose the packaging materials like boxes, bubble wrap, and tape for your moving needs. Encourage household members to save these materials received from online orders in the months before your move to make packing easier and more cost-effective.
5. Book Your Move During Off-Peak Times. Moving companies often charge higher rates during peak times, such as weekends and holidays. To save money, consider booking your move during off-peak times, such as weekdays or winter, when demand is lower. Not only will you save money on moving services, but you may also have more flexibility with scheduling.
6. Take Advantage of Discounts and Deals. Before booking your move, check for discounts or deals moving companies offer. Many movers offer discounts for military personnel, seniors, students, and AAA members, so inquire about any available promotions. You can also save money by booking your move during promotional periods or using referral programs.
7. Host a Garage Sale. Hosting a yard sale isn’t just about decluttering; it’s a strategic move to save money on your relocation. By purging items you no longer need before the big day, you can decrease the number of belongings you’ll have to move. This reduces the size of the moving vehicle required and minimizes the manpower needed for the job. With fewer items to transport, you can potentially lower your overall moving costs and even pocket some extra cash to offset expenses.
8. Prioritize Quality Over Lowest Bids. When selecting movers, it’s crucial to prioritize quality over the allure of the lowest bid. While opting for the cheapest option might seem like a money-saving tactic upfront, it could lead to costly consequences in the long run. For example, low bids often indicate compromises in service quality, which could result in delayed deliveries or damaged belongings. Even if their bid falls in the middle range, investing in a reputable moving company can save you money by ensuring a smooth and reliable relocation experience without the risk of costly damages or delays.
9. Strategically Manage Utilities. Instead of fretting over timing utility shut-offs or overlapping service payments, consider canceling your current utilities and starting fresh at your new residence. This process involves contacting your current utility providers to schedule a service cancellation on your move-out date and then reaching out to new providers in your new area to set up new accounts. Many internet and cable providers offer enticing specials and discounts for new accounts, allowing you to explore better deals in your new area. By shopping around, you may find providers willing to waive activation fees or offer complimentary installations, ultimately saving you money while ensuring seamless utility transitions.
10. Use Storage Units for Transitions. Navigating the gap between move-out and move-in dates can be daunting when you must vacate your current residence before your new home is ready. Opting for storage units offers a cost-effective solution for securely housing your belongings during this transition period. Professional movers can assist in storing your items in a secure, climate-controlled environment, allowing you to pack and prepare for your move without the stress of finding temporary storage options. This approach not only saves money by reducing the size of the moving vehicle required and minimizing the manpower needed for the job but also ensures your belongings are safely stored until they can be seamlessly transferred to your new home.
11. Resist the Urge to Spend. The excitement of moving to a new home can sometimes lead to overspending on unnecessary items. To avoid this pitfall, it’s important to focus on packing only the essentials you’ll need in your new space. Prioritize kitchen appliances, furniture, bathroom essentials, and clothing that align with your daily routine. By packing thoughtfully and only bringing what you truly need, you can prevent unnecessary expenses and avoid cluttering your new home with items that serve little purpose. Once settled in, assess your needs and make informed purchases, ensuring you spend wisely and avoid unnecessary expenditures.
By following these money-saving moving tips, you can enjoy a smooth, stress-free move without breaking the bank. Remember, careful planning and smart decisions can go a long way toward reducing the cost of your move and keeping more money in your pocket.
Save Money With moving tips from Blue Ox Moving & Storage
Ready to experience a stress-free and seamless moving process? Get started today by requesting a moving quote from Blue Ox Moving & Storage, your trusted partner for all your relocation needs. Our team of professional movers is dedicated to providing top-notch service and ensuring a smooth transition to your new home.
As a bonus, download our Ultimate Moving Checklist, designed to help you quickly plan and organize every aspect of your move. From packing tips to moving day essentials, our comprehensive checklist covers everything, ensuring nothing gets overlooked during your move.
