Are you planning a long-distance move but dreading how much it will cost? You’re not alone. The average cost of a long-distance move can be daunting, but you can easily make a move within your budget with a little bit of planning and some creative budgeting. Check out this guide for tips on saving money on your long-distance move.
Buy the Packing Supplies Needed Only
Packing supplies are one of the biggest expenses associated with a long-distance move. But, you don’t have to buy all of the packing supplies at once. Instead, only purchase them when you’re ready to use them. This will help you save money because you won’t have to pay storage fees for the unused packing supplies. Also, be sure to shop around for the best prices on packing supplies. You can often find great deals online or at your local home improvement store.
Get Free Boxes From Local Businesses
One of the best ways to save money on packing supplies is to get free boxes from local businesses. Many businesses have a surplus of boxes that they would be happy to give away. Just be sure to call ahead and ask before stopping by. This way, you can ensure that the business has boxes to give away and that they’re the right size for your needs.
Hire a Reputable Moving Company
Of course, you can always try to move everything yourself, but this is usually not the best idea for long-distance moves. It is a lot of work, but it’s also risky. If you damage any of your belongings during the move, you could be out of money. That’s why it’s usually best to hire a reputable moving company to handle your long-distance move. Yes, it will cost you money, but it will save you a lot of time, energy, and stress in the long run. Don’t just hire the first one you come across. Check out credentials online, speak to those who have moved long distances and compile recommendations. When you pick long distance movers, you want to make sure that they can handle your items in a safe and efficient manner, so by the time you arrive at your new destination there are no worries in your mind that your things survived the trip.
Donate or Sell Unused Items
If you’re like most people, you have a lot of things that you don’t use regularly. Before moving, go through your belongings and decide what you can live without. Then, donate or sell these items to save money on your move. This is a great way to declutter your home and make extra money for your move.
Pack Light
The more stuff you have, the more it will cost to move. So, one of the best ways to save money on your long-distance move is to pack light. Only bring the essentials and get rid of anything you don’t need. This will help you save money on the cost of your move and make it easier to settle into your new home. Remember, you can always buy new things when you get to your new location.
Move During the Off-Season
If you have the flexibility, try to schedule your move during the off-season. This is typically from September to May. Moving during these months will help you save money because it’s typically a slower time for movers. As a result, you may be able to get a discount on the cost of your move. The savings may not be significant, but every little bit helps.
As you can see, there are a number of ways to save money on your long-distance move. You can make your move without breaking the bank by following these tips.