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Having moved a lot, I’ve learned so much about how to move cheaply. I’m here to give you tips on moving on a budget.
It happens to most of us at some time: MOVING! Moving can be expensive, but with some planning and creativity, you can significantly reduce costs. This guide will provide tips for moving on a budget.
This post is all about helping you move on a budget.
3 Thorough Tips on Moving Cheaply!
Tip 1: Find Cheap Moving Supplies
One of the biggest ways to cut down is on actual supplies such as boxes, tape, markers, packing materials, etc. Get your markers from the dollar store and buy your tape anywhere but a storage facility or shipping facility. UPS usually will tape your boxes free if you’re shipping and need it as well!
Buying brand-new boxes is extremely expensive and really adds up (and you always need more than you expect). You can ask your local grocery stores or liquor stores if they have boxes, or use services like FB Marketplace and Nextdoor. I constantly see people offering up free boxes (and general packing supplies).
Another alternative to boxes is bins or reusable bags. Depending on the type of move you’re doing, these can be really effective space fillers. So instead of packing the bags away, pack your things into the bags.
Additionally, another thing most people already have is some sort of backpack or suitcase, which are also amazing to use to pack stuff. These options pack much easier than boxes, take up less space per item, and you don’t have to throw them away (or break them down) afterward.
For packing supplies, you don’t NEED bubble wrap or packing peanuts, or whatever else they offer. Newspaper, towels, and blankets can replace those things. I use packing blankets for my TV and only bubble wrap for things like delicate picture frames or items that 100% need the extra padding. And whatever container you’re using to pack your stuff, fill empty space with leftover clothes, towels, and things of the sort.
Tip 2: Pack Strategically
Packing strategically will save time, space, and your sanity. If you’re using boxes, pack them by room or even categories within rooms so you can organize them when you get to your new space.
PACK HEAVY ITEMS IN SMALL BOXES! Carrying a small, heavy box (or container) up 2 flights of stairs is much easier than carrying a giant heavy box up 2 flights of stairs. Remember to pad the inside if needed!
Always make sure you’re using your space efficiently so you can reduce the number of boxes (carriers) you need. As mentioned earlier, pad your boxes with towels, blankets, or clothes, which saves space AND protects fragile items.
Make sure if you’re shipping items or something where you can’t access your stuff immediately that you pack a day bag that has all of your daily necessities and a change of clothes. It is the absolute worst getting somewhere and needing something you can’t find. Include a box cutter if needed, scissors, and a pen/marker as well.
My favorite packing tip is packing my clothes in trash bags. YES, TRASH BAGS! Now, I only do this for hanging clothes. You basically slide the bag from the bottom of the clothes to the top and then tie the straps together and carry it by the hanger. This keeps all your clothes in order and you don’t need to rehang them. It saves SO much time.
Tip 3: Find Good Transportation
The easiest and usually cheapest way to move short distances is by renting a truck or trailer yourself. If you have family or friends helping you, this is great because you most likely will then have a car you can pack as well. See the cost of renting the truck or trailer on the website and be sure to add any mileage fees that may be added on.
If you’re moving a short distance, you can see if your friends or family are willing to pack their cars and you can offer gas money and anything else you can to thank them.
The second option is to compare quotes from national and local moving companies, depending on your needs and nearby options. This will be more expensive, but oftentimes they handle EVERYTHING after you pack, which is so nice. See what packages you can find and what fits in your budget.
There are also services like U-Haul (U-Box), U-Pack, and PODS. You pack your stuff and they will take it where it should go. These can be really expensive though, but they are a good option if you don’t have much stuff and can afford it.
Last, you can find free or discounted moving labor. Besides recruiting friends/family to help pack and load see if you can hire college students looking to earn extra money. My school had people who would do this and they were always super great.
If those won’t work, check for local moving companies running promotions. This happens quite often and can save you a ton of money!
Reminders:
Change Address and Set Up Utilities in Advance
– Update address with post office, banks, etc.
– Schedule install dates for internet, power, water
– Confirm parking arrangements at the new place
With some clever solutions and planning, it’s possible to significantly cut moving costs and stick to your budget. Focus on only bringing essentials, finding free supplies, and getting help from friends, family, or students to reduce labor costs.
