Imagine you’re planning a move. You do everything by the book except one thing — you haven’t done proper research to compare the deals. As a result, you end up choosing the first moving company you come across, only to realize later that there were more affordable options available. Now, you’re stuck with a costly bill that could’ve been avoided with some research and planning.
If you are on a budget, research and planning can be more essential than ever. With these steps, you ensure a smooth and cost-effective moving experience. But how exactly do you do this?
In this article, we’ll share tips for moving on a budget. They will help you save money and make the most of your move. Let’s get into it.
Tip 1: Plan Ahead
We all know the saying, “Failing to plan is planning to fail.” And when it comes to moving on a budget, this couldn’t be more accurate.
So, what’s the magic behind planning? First, it gives you ample time to compare different moving companies and find the best offers. Plus, you can snag some early bird discounts or promotions that moving companies might suggest.
Here’s a pro tip for you: try to book your move during off-peak seasons. Most people move during the summer months or at the end of the month when leases typically end. So, moving companies are too busy and usually have orders months ahead. They will charge you extra bucks for urgency, which may end up being insanely expensive.
If you can be a little flexible with your moving date, consider moving during the colder months or in the middle of the month.
Tip 2: Declutter Before You Move
When it comes to moving on a budget, less is better. Decluttering can save you money in several ways. First, it reduces the volume of items you need to transport, which can lower the moving cost. Second, it means fewer packing supplies and less time spent packing, which also saves you money.
So, how can you declutter effectively? Here are some tips:
- Begin decluttering a few weeks before your move. This gives you enough time to sort through your belongings without feeling rushed.
- Divide all your stuff into categories. Tackle one category at a time, like clothes, books, or kitchen items.
- As you go through your belongings, have three boxes or bags labeled “Keep,” “Donate,” and “Trash.”
- Ask yourself if you truly need or love each item. If it hasn’t been used in over a year, or it doesn’t bring you joy, it’s probably time to let it go.
- Make some extra cash by selling items you no longer need on online marketplaces or at a garage sale. Donate gently used items to local charities, and recycle or properly dispose of anything that’s broken or unusable.
Tip 3: Pack Yourself
We know that hiring professionals to pack your belongings might sound tempting. But mind that this can also be quite pricey. So, you can save your hard-earned cash by packing yourself. Not only will this help you save money, but it also gives you full control over how your items are packed, ensuring they’re treated with the care they deserve.
If you are not certain how to get the packing things done, here are handy tips from professional ABA Moving packers:
- Before you start, make sure you have enough packing supplies, such as boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap, and tape.
- Pack items you won’t need immediately, like seasonal clothing or decorations.
- Focus on one room at a time, which will help you stay organized and prevent mixing items from different rooms in the same box.
- Protect your breakables by wrapping them in packing paper or bubble wrap. Fill empty spaces in the boxes with crumpled paper, towels, or even clothes to provide extra cushioning.
- Keep the weight of each box manageable to prevent the boxes from breaking or items from getting damaged during the move.
- Securely tape the bottom and top of each box, and label it with the contents and the room it belongs to.
Tip 4: Get Free Packing Supplies
Believe it or not, you don’t have to break the bank on packing supplies. With a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can score some free or low-cost packing materials. And here is how.
Reach out to your friends and family members who have recently moved. Chances are, they might still have some packing supplies they’d be happy to pass on to you.
Or get creative and use household items as packing materials. Towels, blankets, and clothing can serve as padding for fragile items. While suitcases, laundry baskets, or even dresser drawers can be used as containers.
Also, many local businesses, like grocery, liquor, or retail shops, receive their products in sturdy cardboard boxes. Ask if they have any spare boxes they can give you. Most businesses will be glad to see their boxes reused instead of going to waste.
Finally, check online marketplaces. Websites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or Nextdoor often have free listings or may sell cheap packing supplies.
Tip 5: Use Affordable Moving Companies
While it’s true that you get what you pay for, it doesn’t mean you can’t find affordable moving companies that offer quality service. Some, for sure, may not be worth your attention, but there is a pearl you can find on the market. If you are wondering how to find one, visit our article on How to Choose the Right Moving Company for Your Needs.
The benefits of working with cheap movers seem to be straightforward. First, you stay within your budget, even when it’s not that big. Second, affordable movers are still professionals with the experience and knowledge to ensure a smooth moving process. Third, a moving company with reasonable fees will save you time. This way, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your move, like setting up utilities or getting settled in your new home. Finally, movers have the necessary equipment and tools to safely transport your belongings, such as moving trucks, dollies, and furniture pads.
Tip 6: Book in Advance
Booking your movers in advance is like securing a great seat at a concert — the earlier you book, the better the deal. As you book a move ahead of time, you benefit from:
- Better rates
- A better chance of securing your preferred moving date and time, as popular moving companies fill up their schedules quickly
- More time to plan and prepare for your move
- Peace of mind that you have a reliable company booked for your relocation
So, don’t wait until the last minute — book your moving company as soon as you have a moving date in mind. The early bird catches the worm, or in this case, the best moving deal.
Tip 7: Use Reusable Containers
Instead of spending money on single-use cardboard boxes, consider using reusable containers. Not only are they environmentally friendly, but they can also save you money. While reusable containers might require an initial investment, they can be used for multiple moves or repurposed for storage in your new home. Over time, this can save you money compared to purchasing cardboard boxes for each move.
So, where can you find reusable containers? Here are some tips:
- Some moving companies or storage facilities offer reusable containers for rent.
Ask your friends or family members if they have any reusable containers you can borrow. - If you prefer owning your reusable containers, look for them at local stores or online marketplaces.
- You can find various sizes and designs to suit your needs.
- Use items like plastic bins, suitcases, or laundry baskets as moving containers.
Tip 8: Move During Weekdays
Did you know that moving during weekdays can save you money? It’s true! Since demand is generally lower on weekdays, moving companies might offer more competitive prices to attract clients. This means you can score a better deal simply by moving on a Tuesday instead of a Saturday.
Additionally, with fewer people moving during the week, you’ll have more options when it comes to choosing a moving service provider or scheduling your preferred moving time.
To arrange a move in the middle of the week, consider these tips:
- Talk to your employer well in advance about your moving plans and request a day or two off for your move.
- If you have kids, try to schedule your move on a day when they don’t have school, or arrange for childcare during the moving process.
- While you can’t predict the weather, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the forecast and be prepared for any changes that might affect your move.
Tip 9: Negotiate with Your Moving Service Provider
Negotiating with your moving company might feel intimidating, but it’s a skill that can lead to significant savings. Remember, every dollar saved can be put towards making your new home even more comfortable and welcoming. So, don’t be afraid to deal — it’s worth a shot! If you are new to this, here are some recommendations:
- Before negotiating, gather quotes from multiple moving companies to compare prices and services. This will give you a better understanding of the market rates and help you determine a fair price.
- If you’ve received a lower quote from a different moving company, mention it during the negotiation. This can encourage your preferred organization to match or beat the competitor’s price.
- When discussing prices with your movers, have a clear idea of the services you need and any additional requests, like extra packing materials or disassembly and reassembly of furniture.
- Approach the negotiation with a friendly and respectful attitude. Remember that you’re more likely to reach an agreement if you maintain a positive relationship with the moving company.
- If possible, be open to adjusting your moving date or time to secure a better rate. Moving companies might offer discounts for off-peak times or less busy days.
- Some moving companies offer discounts for seniors, military personnel, or first-time customers. Don’t be shy about asking if there are any promotions or discounts available.
Tip 10: Consider a DIY Move
If you’re ready to do some heavy lifting, a self-organized relocation can be a great way to trim expenses. It’ll be a rewarding experience, as long as you know how to do it right. Here’s how to plan and execute a smooth relocation on your own:
- Rent a truck. Compare prices from different vehicle rental companies to find the best offer. Make sure to reserve your truck in advance, especially during peak moving seasons.
- Ask friends and family members to lend a hand on a moving day. A little help can go a long way in making the move quicker and more efficient.
- Collect boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and other packing materials.
- Start packing early and label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to.
- Break down large furniture items, like beds and tables, to make them easier to transport. Keep all screws and hardware in labeled bags so you can easily reassemble the furniture later.
- When loading the moving truck, place heavy items on the bottom and lighter items on top. Fill in gaps with soft items, like pillows or blankets, to prevent items from shifting during transport.
The Bottom Line
Remember that being prepared is the key to a successful and affordable relocation. Despite how irritating it may appear, you will surely nail it with these tips.
Consider using ABA Moving’s services if you’re planning a long-distance relocation or a local move in Miami. Our skilled personnel are committed to providing you with high-quality service at a reasonable price. Allow us to make your relocation as easy as possible so you can focus on settling into your new home. Contact us and get a free quote for your relocation.
