Whether you have just purchased a new home or relocating to a new apartment, moving expenses are likely to be at the top of your mind. You have to buy packing supplies, rent a moving truck, hire movers, and incur other unexpected costs that come along with moving. Many factors have to be considered so that you can relocate to your new place. Here are some hints to help you transition properly and affordably.
Move during off-seasons
Moving companies have peak demand times: Weekends, month-ends, summer school break, and winter holidays. During peak times, the moving costs are higher, movers and trucks are harder to get, and the limited time can degrade the quality of service. Schedule moving during off-peak times, it will surely cost less than in the busy season. Move on a weekday or in-between the month. Better deals and negotiating for a discount can be easier during the off-season.
Follow a Moving Checklist
Having a checklist for moving house will make sure that you are organized in the entire moving process. Since you’re following the checklist, you will be fully aware of every moving expenditure, so you will know which costs can be minimized or avoided. Also, if you hire a moving company that charges per hour, having a checklist enables you to be very efficient and save on time and in turn save money.
Bring only the things you will need
Other than distance, transport, storage, insurance, another factor that might affect your moving expenditure is the load size. Cutting down on your load will reduce your moving costs. Have a garage sale to downsize your belongings or donate items you no longer need. Actually, it makes no sense moving items you aren’t going to use.
Hire an affordable moving company
Before hiring a professional mover, get at least three written estimates from three different companies. The estimates should be done on-site, not over the phone or via email to ensure you get the most accurate quotes. It is important to know upfront how much it will cost you to relocate your items. This way, you can manage the overall process and save money. Also, inquire if the company can handle everything you need to be moved, and screen the companies to judge the quality of the services. If you require additional services such as unpacking or extra pickups, ask what the charges may be to avoid ending up with an unexpected bill.
Shop Wisely
When buying packing materials, you don’t have to sacrifice quality while being cost-conscious. Get double-walled boxes with lids, in sizes appropriate for the contents. Use plenty of padding for breakable items and don’t pack them too closely together. To lower your moving expenses, even more, you may use alternatives packing supplies such as blankets instead of bubble wrap. If you need to rent equipment, shop around for competitive prices and make sure you know the terms of the contract.
Moving is never easy, but that doesn’t mean that it has to be expensive. Preparation is the key to lower moving costs. Take your time to research, plan, and take charge of the process so that you can significantly minimize your moving expenses.
