Moving from one home to another can be expensive. There several expenses you cannot avoid and some that you can easily lose control of without proper planning. However, it is possible to save money on your move with the right steps. To help you save, here are some things you can do.
Choose the Right Time for the Move
During peak moving times, your expenses will likely be higher. Moving companies will be charging more due to the high demands. You could also pay more if you decide to move during the weekend, end of the month, or on national holidays.
To save, you might need to delay your move. If you can, waiting until an off-peak time, such as a winter month, could mean major savings for you. Since it is a slower time of the year for moving companies, you might be able to negotiate an even lower rate.
Get an Estimate
One of the biggest mistakes you could make in planning your move is to skip the moving estimate. The estimate can give you a better idea of what the moving company will charge you for moving so that you can factor it into your budget. You can also avoid unexpected expenses.
For instance, the moving company might charge you more if it is discovered that you have furniture that has a combined weight higher than expected. Schedule an in-home assessment of your furnishings to prevent this.
Donate Unwanted or Unused Items
Movers tend to charge by the estimated weight of furnishings. If you are mailing some of your furnishings ahead of your move, you still face the charges related to the items' weight. To cut down on your expenses, get rid of some of your stuff.
If you have not used an item in a year, chances are, you can live without it. You can donate those unused items and anything else that you do not want. If you donate to a charitable organization, you can even get a credit for those items when it is time to file your taxes.
If donating them is not for you, hold a yard sale. You can even place them for sale in a consignment shop. Regardless of how you do it, get rid of as much as possible.
While reviewing your moving budget, look for other areas in which you can save. Simple cuts could move big savings for you at the end of the day.