Many people underestimate just how expensive a move can be. There are so many costs that need to be covered, and even small expenses can start to pile up. If you’re trying to move on a budget and looking for some money-saving tips, these suggestions should help.
Don’t Be Afraid to Work With Movers
Many people assume that the best way to save on a move is for them to do everything on their own. However, many people have found that working and finding an affordable mover can help them to save money. That’s why you shouldn’t hesitate to hire movers to assist you.
The right movers will be able to work with your budget. Working with movers can also help you to manage your costs. When you work with a moving company, you won’t have to estimate likely expenses. Instead, you’ll know exactly what your move is going to cost you.
Get a Few Estimates
While working with affordable movers can keep your costs in check, you should make sure you work with the right moving company. It’s a wise idea to get quotes from a few different movers.
When you’re asking for an estimate, find out what it includes. After that, you can compare the quotes you’ve given and see where the best prices are. Try to book your movers early on if you can. Prices will rise as the date of your move draws closer.
Reduce Fuel Costs
Even if you’re not moving to a place that’s very far away, you’ll likely use a lot of fuel on moving day. You may have to fill up your tanks a few times on the day of the move. If you’re able to reduce your fuel costs, you’ll be able to put those savings to good use.
Look for apps that will help you to find the lowest gas prices. Plan ahead so that you can fuel up at places with the best rates. Please don’t wait to fill up your tank until it’s almost empty. You can lower your gas mileage by keeping your tank filled up.
Moving During the Off-Season
How much a move costs can vary based on when you move. Many people choose to move during the spring or the summer, which means that prices tend to be a lot higher during these seasons.
If you’d like to keep your costs down, you should see if you can move during another season. Winter is the cheapest time to move, but you can save money with a fall move as well. You can also bring your costs down if you choose to move on a weekday rather than a weekend.
Figure Out What You Can Part With
If you take everything you own with you, you’re going to spend a lot more. If you’re able to get rid of some of your things ahead of your move, however, you’ll be able to cut back your spending. You can even sell some of your things, which could put more money in your pocket.
A closet clear-out can make it easier for you to decide what you want to wear that day. When you get rid of your old things, you can focus on the things you love. Don’t take anything with you that you don’t want to keep. Get rid of all the stuff that you don’t use anymore.
See What You Can Borrow or Get for Free
You can likely borrow some of the things you need for your move. For example, if you need a tarp or some clear plastic storage containers, you may have family and friends that can lend those things to you.
You should also see if you can get cardboard boxes for free. Many grocery stores and retailers will be happy to give these boxes to you. This may not seem like a major expense, but these savings opportunities can add up.
Avoid Food Waste
Many people wind up having to throw out a lot of the food in their fridge during a move. You should try to keep track of what you have in your fridge to avoid this kind of food waste.
Take inventory of your fridge. Identify perishable items and find a way to use those items up before your move. When you’re buying new groceries in the weeks before your move, you should focus on pantry items that won’t go back.
Moving on a budget can be tough, but thankfully, there are many things you can do that will help you save money. Even though a move can cost a lot, a little bit of planning can help you get through a move without breaking the bank.