How To Save Money During Moving
Buying a new home is probably one of the biggest purchases you’ll ever make, so when it comes to moving, keeping costs down and making the moving process affordable is essential.
Luckily, whether you’re moving into your first home, to a new house, apartment or condo, near or far, there are plenty of ways to save money during your move. Read on to find out some top money saving tips from the professional moving experts at ShoreView.
How to Save Money During A Move
1. Have a Clear Out
Take this opportunity to get rid of anything you no longer want or need. If you’re moving with a moving company, the main charge is based on the weight of your possessions – you don’t want to be paying more to move canned food you’ll never eat or clothes and toys your kids have grown out of. Those items you no longer need might even help you earn a little extra cash – try selling unwanted possessions on eBay or Craigslist, and if you can’t make a sale, donate them to a thrift store.
2. Self-Pack Items That Can’t Break
Many moving customers choose packing services for insurance purposes, particularly when it comes to larger, fragile or high value items – but there are certain items that don’t fall into this category. Save money by self-packing possessions that can’t break, such as folded clothing, Tupperware, soft toys and other light items.
3. Find Boxes For Free
Boxes are essential for any move, and you’re likely to need more than you expect! Luckily, there are plenty of ways to get a hold of good, sturdy boxes for free. If you’ve signed a contract with a moving company, your moving team should be your first call. Moving companies usually give their customers five free used boxes per thousand pounds of estimated weight. If you aren’t moving with a moving company, there are still plenty of ways to find free boxes. Try asking at liquor stores, book stores and your local Costco. Take a look at Freecycle, community Facebook groups, and the “Free” section on Craigslist.
4. Ask Friends and Family to Help
If you have friends and family that live close by, they might be willing to help out with packing and transporting your possessions. If you go down this route, be sure to give guidance as to exactly what you’d like help with. Ask different people to pack different areas – assign kitchenware to one person, for example. If you don’t give friendly instruction, even close friends and family members may feel unsure as to what you’d be happy for them to take on, and what they should pack where. Thank your helpers by ordering lunch or dinner for them, playing music to create a fun environment and keeping a positive attitude throughout the day.
5. Get Multiple Quotes
If you choose to move with a moving company, ensure you compare several quotes – you never know how different the estimates might be. Most moving companies do offer all prospective customers a free quote, so don’t hesitate to call around and do your research before committing. Remember to ask about additional fees, and to confirm exactly what moving services this quote will cover. Cost is not everything, but make sure you choose an experienced company you can trust in your home, and one that is affordable.
6. Call off Services
It’s likely you’ll need to cancel your cable, internet and other services before you move. Plan ahead so that you don’t end up paying for these services for any longer than you need to. Make a list to keep track of what you have and haven’t dealt with yet to ensure nothing gets missed.
7. Check Your Old Furniture Fits Your New Home
If you’re downsizing or moving to a new home with a vastly different layout or style, take some time to seriously consider whether you should bring all your current furniture with you. Start by measuring your furniture and your new space to check if the furniture will fit - if not, it’s an easy decision to sell it or give it away. If your furniture does fit, does it go with the look and theme of your new home? Will your ranch-style furniture look right in your new Florida home? If you know you’ll be choosing new furniture for your new home, don’t waste money paying to move existing furniture that will not be used.
Good Luck!
We wish you good luck with your move! If you need any assistance, advice or would like a free quote, contact ShoreView today, we are always happy to help!