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4 Tips for Keeping Your Move Budget-Friendly

Approximately 31 million Americans moved in 2019. But as anyone who’s ever gone through the process knows, it can also be expensive. From hiring professional movers to buying boxes and packing materials, the costs can quickly add up. Fortunately, you can use a few simple strategies to keep your move budget-friendly. By following these tips, you can save money and avoid adding unnecessary stress to your big move.

1. Start By Decluttering Your Home

The first step to keeping your move budget-friendly is to declutter your home. The less stuff you have to move, the lower your moving costs will be. So, take some time to go through your belongings and get rid of anything you don’t need or use. The best way to declutter your home is to start with one room at a time. Separate the items into three piles.

  • Keep: Items you use regularly and can’t live without
  • Donate or Sell: Items that are in good condition, but you no longer need
  • Trash: Items that are broken or damaged beyond repair

Once you’ve decluttered your home, you’ll be able to see how much stuff you actually have to move. This will help you better estimate the cost of your move and make it easier to find affordable moving services.

2. Get Free Boxes and Packing Materials

If you’re like most people, the cost of boxes and packing materials can be a shock. But there’s no need to spend a fortune on these items. Instead, start by asking family and friends if they have any spare boxes. You can also check local liquor stores, bookstores, and grocery stores for boxes. These businesses are constantly getting shipments, so they usually have a steady supply of cardboard boxes.

If you’re still having trouble finding free boxes, you can buy them from a moving or shipping company. Just be sure to compare prices and find the best deal before making your purchase.

Once you’ve got your hands on some boxes, it’s time to start packing. But before you do, be sure to gather some free packing materials. You can usually find these materials around your house. For example, you can use towels, blankets, and pillows to protect your fragile items. Just be sure to pack these items carefully so they don’t get damaged in transit.

3. Hire the Right Moving Company

Did you know that individuals account for 44% of those who hire movers and businesses account for 38%? These two clients usually have very different needs. Businesses tend to have bulkier items and require more specialized services. On the other hand, individuals tend to have smaller items and are usually looking for a more affordable option.

So, what’s the best way to find a moving company that fits your needs? First, start by determining the number and the nature of the items you need to move. This will help you find a company specializing in the type of move you’re looking for. For example, pianos, hot tubs, pool tables, appliances, and art/antiques are the five most difficult objects to transport, according to Moving.com. If you have any of these items, you’ll need to find a company with experience in moving them.

Next, get estimates from at least three different companies. Be sure to compare the services they offer and the prices they charge. And don’t forget to ask about any special promotions or discounts they may be running. By shopping around, you can find a moving company that fits your budget and needs.

4. Make a Plan and Stick to It

One of the best ways to keep your move budget-friendly is to make a plan and stick to it. Start by setting a budget for your move and then creating a list of all the expenses you anticipate. This list should include the cost of professional movers, boxes and packing materials, gas, and food. Once you have a good idea of your moving costs, it will be easier to stay on track.

It’s also important to set some money aside for unexpected expenses. This way, if something comes up, you won’t have to worry about going over budget.

By following these simple tips, you can keep your move budget-friendly and avoid adding unnecessary stress to your big day. So, take some time to plan ahead and make sure you have everything you need to make your move a success.