Saving Money When Moving

Moving is expensive. If you’ve been transferred by your company and they’re picking up the relocation tab, then you don’t have a problem. But for most home owners, it is essential to budget and save money where they can. This article will provide hints and tips on how to save money when moving:

Saving on Supplies
Boxes, tape dispensers, bubble wraps: all these may seem cheap by itself. When you add them all together, however, they cost a significant amount. Save money by borrowing items that can be borrowed and buying second-hand supplies from a friend or acquaintance that just recently moved.

Being creative will also help. For example, instead of using bubble wraps, you can use crumpled newspaper to protect breakables. Also, it may be a good idea to use blankets or linens for padding instead of renting padded blanket from the moving company. Keep in mind that you will need to launder these upon arriving at your destination. For items that you can’t source elsewhere, just look for the cheapest deals in town.

Saving on Labor
Consider packing all your belongings yourself; this will help you save on moving labor cost. The moving company will only arrive at your location to load, move, and unload your items. Call several companies to compare their offers. Make sure to read the fine print before signing any contract with the company.

There are also some moving companies that can provide cost reduction if they can consolidate your items with another customer’s belongings. The option is only recommended for individuals who can live without their stuff for awhile. If you have friends or relatives nearly, call them to see if they can give you a hand. If they pitch up to help, it is customary to provide the “volunteers” with food and drinks. Some people even give small cash gifts.

Saving on Travel
Where will you sleep the night before you leave? Most people overlook this question until the last minute so they end up staying in a hotel. But you can save some money if you plan beforehand. Ask a friend or relative if you can stay at their place the night before you move. If this is not possible, you may want to “rough it” on your own living room floor with a sleeping pad.

For people who need to go long distances, it is important to balance your comfort needs with your budget. Try to have one nutritious, sit-down meal each day. Purchase breakfast from a convenience store and eat it on the go. It may be a good idea to have a proper meal during lunchtime because restaurants often have a cheaper menu at this time compared to their dinner menu.

Simple decisions to save can go a long way. As you can see from the article, there are many ways to save on your everyday choices. You will get maximum value for every dollar you spend if you follow the recommendations above.