moving on a budget

When you’re moving on a budget, all the amounting costs can be daunting. An affordable move may seem out of reach as you’re walking through the hardware store looking for supplies or scrolling through the internet looking for budget truck rentals. But moving on a budget is achievable with proper preparation. These five tips will help you cut down on expenses during your move.

How to save money when moving:

1. Pack smart

One of the best ways to save on moving costs is by packing yourself. Create a packing checklist that accounts for every task that needs to be completed before moving day (from packing the cutlery to hiring a moving truck) in order to stay organized and avoid any stressful last minute scrambles. Check out our recent blog post to learn more about packing efficiently: https://www.wrightselfstorageandremovals.com/top-6-packing-hacks-to-make-your-move-easier-2/ The more organized you are with your packing, the less time it will take the movers to transfer your items from your old house to your new home: speedy moves will save you time and money!

When you’re packing, don’t overlook the money you’re spending on boxes and supplies. Avoid wasting money on packing supplies by searching for free options. Free boxes and other packing items can be found on online sites like Gumtree. Search through local, online listings to see if anyone is trying to get rid of leftover boxes and supplies for free.

If you can’t find any free packing resources, use items that you already have in your house! Start collecting the shipping boxes that you receive in the mail, fill up wardrobe drawers, or use the storage boxes that are sitting empty in your basement. Consider wrapping breakable items in towels and sheets rather than purchasing endless amounts of packing paper. You might also have bubble wrap lying around from an old parcel or wrapping paper from last Christmas that could be repurposed to keep your items safe during the move.

2. Make money where you can

Moving is a great time to clear out items that do not resonate with you anymore. You already have to sort through the piles of stuff that has accumulated in your house, so you might as well set aside the things you no longer use or need. Even though you’re ready to part with certain belongings, there might be someone in your neighbourhood who will want them. Hold a yard sale or list your items on a local online marketplace to make a little money off the items you’re ready to part with. This will also help save money on your move by shrinking the number of items that will need to be transferred. If you don’t have time for a yard sale, considering donating your items to a local thrift store. Take the time to sort through your closet, your cupboards, and your furniture to minimize the moving load. A smaller load and a decreased moving time will positively impact the price of your move.

3. Cancel your utilities

Paying the utilities for two properties will get expensive quickly, so make plans for canceling your utilities as soon as possible. Give your provider a call to find a solution that will transfer utility services from your old property to your new property as smoothly as possible. If you don’t want to worry about timing the utility transfer perfectly, another option is to cancel your current services all together and start with a new account. Many utility providers offer discounts and special deals for new accounts. Try researching different providers and the incentives they offer to find the best deal! And don’t hesitation to speak with the providers about waiving installation/activation fees. A history of timely payments and longtime loyalty will make you a valuable customer that providers may be willing to offer a deal to.

4. Save on your meals

Eating out for every meal in the days before and after your move will get pricey, but when your kitchen is in disarray it might feel impossible to prepare meals at home. When moving on a budget, save yourself the costs of eating out and the stress of cooking by preparing meals in advance. Make a few meals that can be reheated in the oven with minimal prep, print off recipes that require only two or three ingredients, and use the cans of soup and other items that are sitting in your pantry. Planning meals around the ingredients you already have is great way to avoid last minute trips to the grocery store and to minimize the amount of stuff you’ll have to move from your pantry. Use up the almost-empty bottle of olive oil and jar of tomato sauce so that they don’t add to your moving weight. Still not sure what recipes to make for moving day? Here is a list of fifteen yummy recipes to help inspire you: https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/meals-to-cook-while-moving-in/

5. Hire the right movers, not the cheapest movers

Hiring the cheapest moving company won’t always save you money. Cheap rates could reflect low-quality, slow work. Since most moving companies charge by the hour, slow and unprofessional movers will cost you. Even if their hourly rates are less than others, the final cost may actually be more than the competition. Be sure to read reviews to check if the company has a history of slow, inefficient moves that will be costly for you. Additionally, cheap movers may not handle your belongings with care or safety. If your items show up damaged, you might have to cover the cost of repairing or replacing your valuables. Find a reputable company with good reviews; someone with rates that are mid-ranged is the most likely to serve your needs when moving on a budget.

Wright Self-Storage & Removals is the number one removal company for Mansfield and offers a range of services to suit your specific removal needs. Visit https://www.wrightselfstorageandremovals.com/removals/ to learn more about how Wright can help make your next move more affordable!