Making A Big Move On A Little Budget? Creative Ways To Save Money On Your Next Long Distance Move
Posted on: 12 April 2016
Anyone who has ever had to pack up their household belongings and move across town or across the country probably remembers the process with some degree of angst. One of the most often heard complaints from those who have moved is the expense involved in packing and transporting a home full of belongings, especially when the move is a long distance one, involving a relocation of hundreds or even thousands of miles. But it doesn't have to be this way. In fact, if you are planning a move and worried about the cost, there are several things you can do to reduce the damage to your family budget. The following tips will help get you started on the right path.
Time the move correctly for maximum savings
While it may not always be possible to choose the time frame for your move, it is definitely worthwhile to try. Household moving companies, like other businesses, typically have a busy season and an off season. In the moving profession, the busiest part of the year typically coincides with school vacations. If you can time your move during the off-peak season, such as early spring or late fall, instead of during the summer school vacation or the end of the semester break, you can likely negotiate with the moving company for a lower price.
Pare down the weight
Moving is a great time to get rid of excess items, such as the following:
- outgrown or unwearable clothing, shoes and toys
- unwanted books and decorative items
- duplicate or unwanted kitchen gadgets, dishes and cookware
- unused furniture, sporting or hobby goods
- items that have been put aside to be repaired or repainted
- excess items in the attic, garage and crawlspace
Household moving costs are computed by weight, so reducing every possible pound will result in additional savings.
Consider replacing some large items after the move
If you are planning to replace some of your appliances or furniture in the near future, it makes sense to sell the ones you currently own right before you move, instead of paying to have them packed and transported to the new home. Once you arrive at your new home, you can purchase the replacement items and usually have them delivered and installed for free as part of the purchase agreement.
Pick and choose individual services instead of a package deal
Ask your mover to provide you with a bid for the complete moving service, as well as a cost breakdown for each part of the move, such as packing, transporting, storage, etc. Then carefully consider all the information to see where you might be able to save money on the move. For instance, packing and labeling your own household items is one example of how to save on the entire cost.
If you choose to do your own packing, minimize the risk of breaking delicate items by learning and practicing good packing tips. In many instances, you can protect fragile items by packing them as if you were shipping them by mail. Your moving company may also be able to supply you with high-quality packing materials that will protect against breakage.
(Before making a decision to do your own packing, however, make sure that you discuss this with the moving company to verify how this will affect their warranty on breakage or damage.)
Ask your employer for help
Even if your employer does not typically pay for employee moving costs, they may consider helping with the cost if the move is necessary for the job you perform. Even if the employer will not agree to pay for all or part of the cost, they may be willing to give you an advance on your salary to help with the expenses involved.
For more moving tips and information, contact a local moving company like Wheaton World Wide Moving.
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