Embarking on a move can be quite a hefty undertaking, particularly when being budget conscious. However, with the right strategies, even the most financially aware individuals can have a successful, low-stress move if they need more time to fork out the funds for a professional moving service.
This article is for you. We’ll delve into some DIY moving tips specifically targeted towards those who want to save those extra bucks without compromising on the efficiency of their move.
So let’s unpack these practical tips to help you move without breaking the bank.
7 Tips to Help You Move On a Budget
Moving is the third most stressful life event after divorce and death. Imagine that for a second. Most people find moving so stressful that they list it as one of the most life-changing experiences. The emotions and decisions are the same whether you hire a moving service or do it yourself.
Every move represents a chance to reinvent yourself or start over. Here are some tips on how to move on a budget and with less stress.
1. Plan to Avoid Stress
You don’t have to let life happen to you. Don’t be reactive, but proactive. Plan your move to ensure it is smooth and affordable.
It would help to prepare yourself to move, whether you meticulously plan every moment or prefer to live in the present. Moving requires emotional and physical energy. Many online moving checklists are available. These include templates you can print and articles with tips and strategies. Moving.com and Move.org have checklists and tips for a DIY move.
2. Get Rid of Some Items
How long has it been since you last read the stack of magazines now producing dust bunnies? How about that sports equipment you purchased with good intentions but now being used to hang your clothes? It’s the perfect time to eliminate all the extra baggage you have been carrying. It’s a great time to do a deep physical and emotional clean. Holding on to things you don’t use is like emotional bankruptcy.
Organizing your move is preparing yourself for a whole new life. Get rid of things that might bring back bad memories. Change to things that reflect the life you desire. It doesn’t need to be a costly process. You can do it by downsizing a section you find too big for a loveseat or chair that is more suitable for you or by getting rid of unused bookshelves or oversized sectionals. Keep things you no longer need.
Life is all about people and not things. But this is a lesson that many of us have learned too late. The famous (unknown) quote goes: “People are created to love.” Things were made to be used.” Use this as an opportunity to become more minimalistic.
Living simply and within one’s means can teach you a lot. You won’t make any memories with objects, so value people instead. You will be more prosperous if you value the people in your life.
Garage sales can be a great way to earn money for moving expenses or that first expensive grocery shopping trip.
3. Shop Around
Do not assume that the process of moving will be the same every time. Prices and conveniences change, as do all other things. Moving on a tight budget is always possible, but the process will always look different. Shopping around and understanding your options can help reduce some of the stress we discussed.
When you have time, you do not have money. The words “never have been truer” were never spoken. Most of us strive to find balance in our lives. Moving your belongings yourself will be best if you have time. You can either ask your friends to help or do it yourself. Choose wisely if you can afford to hire a moving service. Be aware of the current market rates. Moving.com provides a list of tips on how to find the best movers.
Why would you choose a different moving company when you can find most of your needs online? Begin with a basic search, then narrow your choices to three. Take advantage of the free quotes, and take advantage of companies who will come and offer a free consultation. Upack offers some excellent comparison charts. You should also plan for state taxes if moving across state lines.
Many moving companies charge a flat fee for their services. Check out the Yelp reviews for your state. Pay attention to the negative reviews. Even if something’s cheap, it needs to be better. You should consider the value of what you own and how it will affect your feelings if something is damaged. Packing and properly packing your possessions might help you save money. The number one complaint against moving companies is that their possessions are damaged.
This is something I can confirm. We are moving from one state to another, and I spent weeks researching online. I used Google, Angie’s List, and Yelp to find every company and got four quotes.
Guess which one I chose? I picked the third-most expensive one. Why? They came to my house, met me, and walked around to see what we planned to move. I was uncomfortable because the other companies provided me with a quote without seeing my home.
After researching, I discovered that the two moving companies were a bunch of guys with a UHaul who do this as a part-time business. Moving across state borders with my belongings (and my infant) made me nervous. I chose a moving company that made me feel confident and comfortable but was more expensive.
4. Spend Less on Boxes
Paying for boxes will quickly increase the cost of moving. Moving companies rely on your inability to be organized and pay for boxes. Boxes are available everywhere. You can take them if you ask.
Boxes are plentiful in offices. Use the boxes at your office to save money on moving. Before packing day, ask colleagues to save boxes so that you are ready to go. You’ll save money, and people will happily give up their space.
Use social media friends and followers to get free packing materials and boxes. You may already have friends and family willing to help you move. There’s no harm in reaching out via social media to people who want to get rid of the packing boxes they’ve stored since the last time they moved. You can plan and go to garage sales or spring cleaning times when people remove packing materials and boxes like bubble wrap.
5. Moving Season: Avoid it
It’s no wonder that everyone moves in the spring and summer. In many areas of the United States, you can wear lighter clothes without worrying about slipping and sliding on ice. If you have a flexible schedule, moving during the off-season can save money. You may need more time and effort but you will see the benefits.
You can take advantage of the fact that most people choose to move in the summer months. Moving companies will be actively seeking your business when the season is off. Angi says that winter is the ideal time to move. You can find the best rates and try to negotiate a lower price. This is a time when you are needed.
You may be reluctant to ask for help moving in bad weather, but your friends and family will be more willing to assist you when the season is off. You may remember the summer you spent three weekends moving friends and were only given a bad beer as a thank-you. Throw a pizza party to thank all those who helped and christen your place.
Winter is also a time of vacancies. When the weather cools, landlords find it harder to fill apartments and houses. You can take advantage of this. You can negotiate the rent, utility bills, or deposit during this period. Some landlords are eager to fill their inventory and may overlook your credit rating. While the weather might not be perfect, time is money, and you should know that.
6. Find Creative Ways to Finance Your Move
Moving on a budget means knowing what costs you must pay and what you may not. We don’t all work for moving companies who will pack our stuff and handle the hassles of moving. You may need extra money to cover the costs of moving. You should know what expenses your employer will cover and if you can deduct them to save money. If you are moving long distance, remember to factor in extra costs such as accommodation and fuel.
Look for a credit card that offers a generous intro bonus—for example, a 0% offer. Using a credit card with a high introductory incentive, such as 0%, might help you cope with the stress of relocating.
Use any favors that friends or acquaintances may owe you. You spent three consecutive weekends helping your friend move. Now it’s your turn to pay back. You can get help packing and moving if you spread out your tasks. Saying thank you is free.
You might have the skill or talent to offer others to make your move more affordable. The bartering practice is still thriving, but more people need to use it. You can barter web design services in exchange for a large truck. Do not discount the value of your skills in an alternative economy.
7. Utility Planning Is a Smart Move
When you transfer utilities, you can save money. When setting up a utility account for the first time, timing is crucial to your budget. Why should you pay for utilities that you have yet to use?
Decide when you’ll move out and when your utilities will be shut off at home. Get a reading of your meter to know how much you owe. It can be smart to stay with family or friends while you pack your home. You may be able to turn off the utilities even earlier in this situation and only work during daylight hours.
Nobody wants to move into a new home and find it dark and with cold water. This is because they still need to prepare. Contact your new utility provider so they know the date you will be moving and can prepare for you. Heat is especially important if you are moving during colder weather.
Plan. You can use many online utilities to plan your utilities for your new home. This tool from Apartment Guide is one of them.
Conclusion
Moving on a budget can be a challenging task. With careful planning, research, and exploring various options, you can make the moving process smooth and cost-effective, even without a full-fledged professional moving service.
However, if you need some expert help, consider Fast Movers of Sarasota LLC. We offer efficient, budget-friendly moving support that fits perfectly with your DIY efforts, ensuring you get your belongings to your new home safe and sound. Remember, a successful move is a blend of preparation, organization, and knowing when to seek professional aid. Happy moving!
FAQs
How can I move more easily by myself?
Use moving equipment. It can be challenging to move by yourself. It is important to have good moving equipment. Moving heavy items is easy with either four-wheel or traditional dollies. Furniture pads and blankets will help prevent heavy items from slipping, scraping, and damaging other things.
What should you pack up first?
Start packing in the least used room. The garage, basement, or attic could be your least-used room. Start packing in the room you least use.
What is the most difficult room to pack?
You’ll have to pack the kitchen and bedroom because you will need them to use items during packing.
When should I begin packing up my room for a move?
Start planning your packing strategy at least six weeks in advance. You’ll first need to prepare, such as cleaning, decluttering, and buying moving and packing materials. The last two or three weeks are for packing.
