Packing up and moving to another place can certainly come with stress, emotions, and many decisions. Your wallet doesn't need the stress, too! Here are some tips on moving while keeping it budget-friendly.
Plan Ahead
List-makers, this one is for you!
No matter whether you're packing up and moving a long distance or nearby, the logistics of how you'll move your belongings from one location to another are often stressful and quite costly. Here are some questions to consider:
- Am I moving all of my belongings to my new home at once or over a period of time?
- How will I move everything? Will I ask family and friends for help or hire a moving company?
Answering these questions can help you get started on what'll hopefully be a smooth move that doesn't take a toll on the wallet.
Declutter and Donate/Sell
Do you absolutely need to bring all your belongings to your new home? Moving is a great opportunity to declutter and start fresh in your new home. You can donate some items to those in need in your community or sell them and make some extra cash to aid in moving costs.
Avoid Moving During Peak Season
Many choose to move during the spring and summer months, and for a good reason! More favorable weather conditions will allow you to move easily without battling snow, ice, and frigid temperatures.
If you can choose when you move, consider moving during the "off-season." In most cases, moving companies are looking for business during the non-peak season and may offer you a discount. If you decide not to hire movers and use your family and friends as reinforcements, they may be more likely to be available during the winter months. Be sure to say an extra big "Thank you" to them. Brrr!
Find Alternatives to Packing Materials
Why spend the money on moving boxes when you could get a little creative for much cheaper? You can find boxes for a lot cheaper or even free by asking around office buildings and merchants or asking colleagues, family, and friends to save boxes for you.
Another alternative is to pack up your belongings into items you already own. Your fragile items can be wrapped up in articles of clothing or blankets for safety. Plastic grocery bags are also a great way to pack items up for easy transport to the next place. This way, you save what you would've spent on moving materials and help the environment, too!
Plan Out Your Utilities Accordingly
Coordinating the correct timing of your utilities is a great way to save while moving. Contact utility companies before moving to ensure services don't start earlier or end later than you'll need
