Smart Ways to Cut on Moving Costs

Posted by MoneySavvy on Aug 10th, 2010 | no comments home title

So you are ready to make a move. It could be across the state or across the country, for work or pleasure. When you move, use your brains to find ways to cut down on the cost to you.

If you are moving for work, the job may help with the cost of relocation. If they cut you a check for a few thousand dollars you are in luck. The money doesn’t have to come out of your own pocket but you will still want to save as much as you can so the rest can go to you.

Get estimates – This is important for many reasons. You can know what type of prices you are dealing with for the services that you want to hire. Ask about what that estimate includes so you are aware of any restrictions or extras you might have to pay.

Carry some stuff in your car – Everything doesn’t have to fit in the truck. If you have one or even two vehicles, pack them with lighter items like boxes of clothing, small items and delicate things that you don’t want to get broken. If they charge by the pound, then you are saving money.

Find your own boxes – You can get sturdy boxes out behind grocery stores, at your job and from friends. Use them to pack your smaller items instead of buying the boxes from the moving company. Invest in an industrial size roll of bubble wrap for your breakables.

Utilize their services in the off season – You might be thinking that there is not an off season when it comes to moving, but most people would rather not move in the winter. If you choose a colder month, you may happen upon a better deal for the services.

Be flexible with your dates – Keeping to a tight schedule is never good for anyone. If you want to save money, give your moving company a few days leeway on pickup and delivery. Staying with friends or relatives close by won’t inconvenience you if your furniture is scheduled to arrive three or four days after you do.

You’ll pay extra for stairs – People who move to apartments on the second and third floor may pay extra for the maneuvering the movers will have to do to get through those tight spaces.

Be your own mover – You can rent a truck and pay by the day or the mile. If you are in good shape or have a ton of friends to help out, you can pack the truck and unload it yourself. You would only have the cost of gas and the truck rental. This works best for in-state moves or when you are not moving a lot of heavy items.

Moving can be costly but you can beat the odds with these tips.