Let’s face it. Moving can be a stressful and time-consuming process. Whether you are moving across town or across the U.S., the costs can put a hurt on your pocketbook. Sadly, moving can be a huge expense when you factor in supplies, professional movers, or renting a U-Haul and shipping your vehicle. But there are a few tips you can use to cut moving costs considerably:
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1. Find Free Boxes
You will likely need a lot of boxes for your move. And in most cases, you will not have to pay a dime for them. After businesses stock their shelves, they often break down the empty boxes and put them in a bin behind the store. In most cases, they are happy for people to take them. Just check behind grocery stores, retail stores, and recycling businesses to find them.
2. Do Your Own Packing
If you are on a budget, you won’t need the services of professional packers. They can cost a fortune. If you are moving a long distance, there is no guarantee that your items will make it there in good condition.
3. Get Several Moving Quotes
Charges for moving can vary wildly. And not all moving companies are the same. So, if you decide to use a professional moving company, get several quotes. You should also read company reviews to see whether or not they have a good reputation.
4. Get Friends and Family to Help
In most cases, family and friends will pitch in for free. Even if you have to throw a few bucks their way, it is well worth it because you will likely save a lot of money. The fees for professional packing companies can cost literally thousands of dollars.
5. Get Rid of Clutter Before You Pack
Before you begin to move, start tossing out things you neither need nor want. You will be surprised how quickly you can lighten your load once you get rid of junk. If you have a lot of unused items like clothing, electronics, or furniture, place them all on the side of the curb or drop them off at the nearest Goodwill.
6. Ship Your Vehicle
If you need to have your vehicle moved cross country, find a car shipping service that offers reasonable prices. Not all shipping companies are alike. The costs and quality can vary wildly so it’s important to call several and compare quotes and services provided. Some companies require a deposit. As always, be sure to read the fine print and ask any questions you have on the front end. Make sure the company is bonded and has a current license. Read over the reviews and check out their rating with the Better Business Bureau.
Moving can be extremely stressful and taxing. Thankfully, there are many things you can do to lighten the burden and make moving a lot less worrisome. Just follow a few proven budget-saving strategies to make your move a lot smoother and less costly.