By Dallas Kali
No matter if you’re moving apartments you rent, or you are moving to your dream home, the whole process that awaits is exciting for sure. However, once you decide you are ready to move, there’ll be some kind of stress involved too. After all, this is one of the life-changing events for everyone. Therefore, you should put a lot of thought and plan into it to minimize potential accidents. Relocation is a costly endeavor, but there are ways you can save money. This article will share our best moving on a budget tips to help you avoid breaking your wallet.
The list of tips when moving on a budget
Research has shown that an average local relocation can cost up to $500. Of course, it goes without saying that the longer the distance, the more expensive the relocation will be.
That’s why it’s essential to plan ahead if you want to move cheaply. For instance, you can look for alternative ways of packing materials or storage solutions. You might decide to split the costs with someone and drastically save on storage expenses.
So, let’s dive into tips for moving on a budget and get you started with your move!
Declutter and donate stuff
If you would like to save on your move, you should start by deciding what stays and what goes. In other words, you’ll need to do a thorough decluttering of your current home. It would be helpful to create different piles for different purposes. Experts recommend creating three separate piles is the best way to get ready for your cheap move.
- the one with things you need and will keep;
- the other with items you will sell or donate;
- and the last one with something that you’ll throw away.
Donating clothes you haven’t worn over six months will significantly help save money when moving.
If you start feeling overwhelmed or don’t know where to start, it would be best to go room by room and
Get packing materials on the cheap or for free
Boxes, tapes, and packing materials are a must during every move if you wish to move your possessions safely. However, there are ways you can save money on these essentials.
For example, if you know someone who has recently moved, you can see if they have some boxes to offer you for free or a relatively small price.
Additionally, there are multiple websites and local bargain groups on social media where you can scout out boxes for cheap or even free.
Getting boxes for free is one of the simplest to save money when moving on a budget
Hunt for relocation discounts
Numerous moving companies offer discounts for student moves. If you are not a student, you might be able to get relocation discounts through the military, AAA, or other organizations.
However, if none of these apply to you, don’t be disappointed as many moving companies offer packages or some general deals.
Avoid the moving season when moving on a budget
Another way to save money on your relocation is to avoid the moving season. Believe it or not, there is one (summer) which can significantly affect your moving costs. This is due to many reasons, primarily because of the favorable weather conditions.
So, if you have a flexible schedule, consider moving off-season to save money. Firstly, moving companies will be actively searching for business during this period and might offer you better deals. Additionally, your friends and family will be more available to help as the summer holidays are over.
Get estimates from different moving companies
Experts recommend getting at least three different estimates before deciding on a moving company. First, however, you need to be realistic and aware of potential issues.
For example, if the offer you get sounds too good to be true, that must be for a reason. So, to avoid having your items broken, it’s best not to choose an unrealistically low price a particular company offers.
Another good thing to check is whether the movers you consider offer services like large furniture assembly or temporary storage solutions. Also, there are excellent online tools that will help you calculate everything to the tiniest detail, from moving costs to storage services and furniture assembly.
Friends and family can help
If you are moving on a budget, another good idea is to ask your friends and family for help. You might actually be surprised by the willingness of your loved ones to help. In addition, you can use this opportunity to spend some quality time with your loved ones and of course, don’t forget to bring in some snacks and drinks to enjoy during breaks.
Packing, decluttering, and donating will go more manageable with the company of a loved one.
To ensure the best-case scenario, here are some things that will help.
- As soon as you decide on your moving date, make sure you contact your friends or family to check if they’re willing and available to help.
- Organize things in advance so that you can start packing as soon as they get there. Another good thing is to have a plan for which things go first.
- Finally, find a way of saying thank you for your help and efforts. A bag of homemade chocolate cookies will go a long way without having to break the bank.
Avoid making expensive mistakes
When wanting to save money on your move, the last thing you want to do is to make a mistake that will end up costing you a lot. So here are the most common mistakes people make when moving to be aware of.
- Accepting the first offer, you get from a moving company without comparing it to a couple of others;
- Falling for an unrealistically low-cost estimate that ends up being a fraud;
- Signing incomplete or blank documents when movers come to pick up your stuff;
- Deciding to entrust your valuable possessions with movers. If you need to do so, it would be best to get insurance.
- Wishing to save money on your relocation, you might end up lifting heavy pieces of furniture on your own and without the proper equipment. All of this might lead to potential accidents.
The takeaway from moving on a budget
Preforming a move has never been an easy task, regardless of it’s a local or a long-distance move. So, to ensure a smooth process, you will need to do a lot of planning ahead. If you are also moving on a budget, be sure to refer back to our article and follow our tips to save money! Happy moving!
