Moving can be and exciting time considering a new location and a chance for a fresh start but the time and labor intensity along with what can be extensive costs can lead to stress. The expense can include packing materials, professional movers, renting a truck, gas, and on.
The first step in keeping costs down when moving is to develop a detailed plan outlining the anticipated expenses. This will include the deposit and first month’s rent on your new place and the price point for the moving company.
Fortunately, there are quality and qualified low price local moving companies to help people stay within a distinct budget. You can also take care to maintain your budget by paying attention to daily spending while in the process of moving.
You can reduce the overall costs by using existing items to repurpose packing materials and use local shops to source free boxes. Strategic planning to ensure your move is planned for off-peak times could result in discounts. An organized approach can lead to an overall efficient and cost-effective move.
Moving is a huge undertaking. It can be stressful and expensive if not well planned and organized. There are many resources available to help make the process simpler and more straightforward. It takes some time and research, but the extra effort is worth it.
It can result in reasonable pricing for movers, free resources for packing supplies, and much more. Visit – Cheapest Way To Move | Money – for tips on the cheapest way to move. Consider the following tips when setting a budget and getting a plan ready for your move.
The Budget
Before hiring a professional moving company or starting to get your existing home packed up, it’s important to develop a plan for your move and establish a realistic moving budget. You want to allow room for potential setbacks or unexpected complications along the way.
With a well-thought-out budget, you’ll know what you can afford for your relocation and can set limitations on each expense. A moving calculator is an ideal tool to help estimate varied factors that impact the overall costs.
You want to remember to include expenses such as storage, transportation expenses, moving insurance, and temporary housing, reducing the potential for unexpected costs being deducted from the set budget. That doesn’t mean an issue won’t arise, but you’ll be better prepared.
Off-peak Time Frame
It’s not always possible to choose when you relocate. You might have a new job waiting for you in a different state or a family member in poor health that you need to get to as quickly as possible. However, it you do have the luxury of choosing the time of year you want to move consider your budget.
Most people choose spring or summer as the best times to move due to the weather and children being out of school. These peak times can cost much more since movers are in high demand and are less accessible. The off-peak time frame to consider when moving on a budget is between October and March.
This can save you as much as 30 percent with the final price point. If you do have to move during peak season, you can save by choosing a weekday instead of relocating on the weekend. Read here for guidance on moving on a tight budget; ways to save.
Compare Quotes
When a budget is established and the day is set, it’s wise to start shopping for a moving company. The priority is to compare several quotes to find the most competitive rates. The average rate is roughly $1400 but this varies from one company to the next.
It also depends on whether you’re hiring a full-service team, a container service, or renting a truck. You want to avoid settling on the first company you find. Doing due diligence in research to ensure you’re getting the best value for the price is essential.
You want a quality job for the cost. Find out if the company sets their rates by the truck size and mileage, load, or charges by the hour. Some may negotiate a flat rate. Once you have several quotes, compare each and choose the service that meets your needs and purposes and fits your budget.
Declutter, Donate, Sell, or Toss
Before moving through your existing home to pack items up, you want to consider which things you want to take and those that you’d rather not move. As you go through the house, separate the items into boxes marked for donating, selling, or tossing out.
Many items can be repurposed or recycled but those that are beyond repair should be tossed out. Gifting to friends or charities is another solution for things you no longer want if the objects are in good condition. Selling things is a way to make a little money that you can put toward the move.
You can either have a garage sale or post it on a marketplace. Things that don’t sell can be put in the donate box and taken to a local charity.
Packing Supplies
Big Box stores and recycling centers are good resources for free moving boxes. You can also check marketplaces and close friends and family for materials to repurpose for packing materials. Some stores sell supplies such as bubble wrap, packing paper, tape labels, and on at a discount or in bulk.
You can also repurpose items you have on hand instead. Instead of using cardboard boxes, use plastic tubs, hampers, or suitcases, or trunks. You can also pack up bedding and clothing in garbage bags and wrap dishes and other breakables in plastic bags or tissue paper.
To avoid fragile items from breaking, put towels between them and other items in their containers. Instead of moving pad, use blankets between furnishings as the moving truck is loaded.
Final Thought
Moving can be a thrilling time especially if you’re starting a new career and getting a fresh start in a new state. It doesn’t have to be stressful. With careful planning, a well-thought-out budget, and reputable, low-cost local movers, it can be seamless and easy.
