If you’re planning on moving homes, you might be worried about the cost of the entire process. Fortunately, you’re not alone. In fact, in 2017, 11% of the U.S. population relocated. Moving doesn’t have to be expensive, and now, more than ever, there are many ways to cut down the budget for short-term and long-term costs.
Use What You Have
Chances are, you already have most of the supplies you need to pack, so there’s no need to buy more boxes. Ask your friends, neighbors, and family to save any boxes of packing paper from their latest shipments too. You can use old magazines to wrap breakable items. This way, you can stockpile boxes and packing equipment without stretching your budget.
Before packing, look around your home and decide if you want to keep everything. Stuff accrues over the years, and sometimes you don’t realize how much you have until you’re packing. Take the time to declutter your home. The fewer items you have to move, the less money you’ll spend on transportation. Donate or sell things that you no longer need or want. It will save you time and effort during the move, and you’ll thank yourself later when you have fewer boxes to unpack.
Consider Renting a Packing Container
If you have a longer timeframe for your move, consider renting a packing container. This will allow you to pack more leisurely, and you won’t have to rush to finish everything in one day. However, stick to your agreed-upon timeframe to avoid additional charges.
Don’t book the first moving company you find. Research multiple companies and get estimates from each one. Look for referrals from friends or family members, and ensure the company has the proper insurance. Check with your building’s management team to see what insurance policies movers must hold.
Avoid Peak Season
Moving during peak season (June-September) can be more expensive and less convenient. If possible, move between October and May. If you must move during peak season, try to book movers in the middle of the week for better prices and availability.
Cutting your monthly spending before you move can help you save money in the long run. Consider canceling TV or internet services early and relying on your phone’s Wi-Fi. Seek out new cable or satellite providers offering a 12-month special for movers, but be sure to read the contract terms carefully.
The Pros and Cons of Hiring Movers
If you’re on a tight budget, consider asking your friends to help you move. However, hiring professional movers can save you time and effort. Consider the weight and distance of your move and any valuable or complicated items you need to move before deciding whether to hire movers. Keep in mind the distance that you will have to travel. About 79 percent of most injuries are caused by natural gas distribution lines. It may be safer to have professionals move your belongings if you’re not comfortable driving a larger vehicle.
Set yourself up for long-term success too. The moving process doesn’t end once you’ve physically moved everything from one house to another. When you’re in your new home, a great way to save money long-term would be to apply a roof coating to extend the life of your roof. Roof coatings can add up to 25 years to a roof’s service life, saving you money on costly roof replacements down the line.
Moving on a Budget is Possible
Moving homes doesn’t have to be expensive. By being resourceful and asking for help from those around you, it will be easier to reduce unnecessary costs and make the process far less stressful. Remember to focus on short-term and long-term solutions; your wallet will thank you later.