More often than not the process is stressful and expensive, regardless of whether it’s your first move or your fifth.
Thankfully, however, there are some steps that you can take to help reduce your stress and cut down on your overall moving costs. Whether your small move is across town or you’re only bringing the bare essentials, it doesn’t need to cost a fortune.
From figuring out the estimated costs of small moves to simplifying the packing process, here are some tips to help lower your stress and save some money in the process.
Hiring Movers vs a DIY Small Move
Even a small move can be time-consuming. If heavy furniture is involved, your small move can strain your muscles and result in an aching back. These are only a few reasons why consumers often turn to a professional moving company even if they’re only relocating down the street. Sometimes it’s easier to let the professionals handle everything.
While turning everything from packing, loading, and delivery to professional movers has its advantages, the service can also be expensive. You may also worry about trusting others to handle your valuable and fragile items like antiques and family heirlooms. You can’t ride in the truck with your stuff to ensure everything arrives unbroken.
If you’re searching for a way to keep moving costs at a minimum, you may want to consider handling everything on your own. This means you’re responsible for packing everything up and transporting your belongings to your new address. If you have a vehicle or can borrow one from a friend or family member, you may want to consider making it a DIY small move.
How to Choose a Professional Moving Company
If you’re considering going with a professional moving company, don’t go with the first name you find. This is one of those times it pays to do a little research. For instance, visiting http://www.bigleaguemovers.com gives you a complete understanding of what Big League Movers offers and ensures a well-informed decision for your moving needs.
Look for moving services with top-rated reviews. Yes, you’re counting stars. Ideally, you want to choose a moving company with plenty of verified 5-star reviews. Make sure the reviews are from verified customers.
You also want to compare moving rates and these can significantly vary between companies. You may not want to go with the cheapest price. Sometimes, moving prices reflect service quality. However, you should be able to find a reputable moving company in the mid-price range.
While you’re checking prices, look at what services are included. You don’t want to end up paying more simply because the services you need are considered extras.
Tips on Saving During a Small Move
Regardless of whether you’re hiring professionals or taking care of everything on your own, here are some tips to help keep costs at a minimum.
Move During the Off-Season
Yes, moving rates tend to change at certain times of the year. Knowing when rates fluctuate can help ensure you’re getting the best price.
Moving companies tend to charge more during the summer. This is considered peak moving times so everyone is busy and trying to keep up with demand. Not only are you going to pay more for your small move, but it can also be difficult to find a time that fits your schedule. Waiting until the fall or winter can make your small move noticeably more affordable.
Consider Moving Insurance
Almost all professional moving companies offer insurance. Your homeowner’s or renter’s policy may also cover a small move. If not, you can usually add moving insurance to your existing policy.
Not everyone needs moving insurance but if you have fragile or valuable items, it’s something you should consider. Moving insurance can cover repair and replacement costs if an item is damaged during transportation. Some policies can even offer a cash settlement, but this is usually only available if you use a professional moving service.
Have a Yard Sale
Moving is the perfect time to start decluttering. As you’re packing up drawers and closets take a look at each item before tossing it into a moving box. If you don’t remember purchasing an item or haven’t thought about it in years, does it really need to come with you to your new address?
Gather up everything you don’t want to take with you and hold a yard sale. You may be surprised at what your neighbors will buy, especially when you consider tossing it away. The money you make from the yard sale can go towards covering some of your moving costs. Whatever doesn’t sell, donate to charity or toss in the garbage.
Take Advantage of Free Moving Supplies
You can take a significant chunk out of your moving costs simply by taking advantage of free moving supplies. You’re probably not going to find everything for free, but anything can help lower moving costs.
Check your local grocery stores and liquor shops for moving boxes. You can usually find packing material in your drawers and closets. Old sheets and towels can be used to wrap fragile items. Old comforters can fill in any gaps in the boxes. Some supplies you will need to purchase like packing tape but this expense is usually minimal.
Ask Friends and Family for Help
Chances are no one is going to jump at the prospect of helping you move, but bribery can help. By asking family and friends for help, you may be able to skip using professional movers.
You can probably get off paying your friends and family with some pizza and drinks. This option usually works best when you know at least one person with a vehicle large enough to transport all of your belongings, including your furniture.
Take Care of the Packing
You may be able to reduce professional moving costs by taking care of the packing. Yes, it’s time-consuming but it also has some advantages.
You know exactly what’s going into each moving box. This can make unpacking a little easier. You’re also in control over how your breakable items are packed.
You Can Move Affordably
Listen, we get it—nobody likes spending any more money than they need to, especially when it comes to moving.
Thankfully, you can keep costs down during your small move even if you decide to go with partnering with the professionals. Sure, it takes a little more of your time to help keep expenses down but it can be well worth the extra effort to do.