Moving On Low Budget Again
When it comes to moving your family, self, or business, the expenses involved are always an important issue. AMEX Moving & Storage offer a variety of ways to help you save during your move. We even have created a list of tips that can help you stretch even the smallest of budgets. Living in uncertain financial circumstances, many Americans have limited resources that they can budget toward a move. Thankfully, there are many things that can be done to ensure you spend less come moving time.
EARLY PLANNING
Giving yourself time to develop a moving plan is essential. Aside from the obvious research and gathering quotes from movers, no one likes the stress of packing an entire household in a day or two. Spreading out the packing over the course of the several weeks leading up to the big day will give you breathing room. Pack a box or two a day. For larger items, first pack those that you won’t be needing until after the move: sporting equipment, off-season clothing, etc. You should also take into account the date of your move: the moving industry has different seasons and booking during off-peak periods can potentially save you as much as 30%. Being smart about when you shut off some utilities can keep you from paying for an extra month – you can survive without cable for a couple of weeks.
KEEP THINGS SEPARATED
Packing early and gradually also has this great benefit: it will give you time to consider if some items are simply not needed and can be donated, discarded or sold. No one wants to make a frantic decision about the value of an item on a hectic moving day. Also, of course: less items to move equals a lower budget. Additionally, if you decide to sell items, whether online or a traditional garage sale, you can use those funds toward your upcoming move. If you’re going the charitable donation route, almost all are tax-deductible, saving you even more.
KEEP ASKING QUESTIONS
One of the keys to moving on a limited budget is being as knowledgeable as you can on the process. Ask as many questions as you can if you are unsure about the specific costs involved. Many moving companies look to take advantage of an uneducated customer. When considering professional services, collect at least 3 quotes from different companies and don’t be afraid to negotiate. You can read more about the possible hidden costs of moving here.
SAVING ON MATERIALS
There are many sources of free packing materials, if you take a little time to look. Start in you own backyard: ask neighbors and nearby businesses, many of who will be happy to supply you with cardboard boxes to use. Grocery stores, liquor stores, supermarkets usually have the sturdy quality boxes you are looking for. You can likewise find boxes at work: printer-paper boxes work very well for smaller items. Just be sure to inspect them for damage beforehand. There are services which will pay for your used boxes after the move as well. Your basement or garage may already hold most of what you need: old blankets and sheets are excellent for wrapping items, as well as old newspapers, magazines and socks for cushioning items – all are cheaper than paying for bubble-wrap & packing peanuts
ENLIST YOUR FRIENDS
If your budget is low enough to decide on the DIY moving approach, think of the people in your immediate network who would be willing to help you out. Whether it be friends, relatives, neighbors or colleagues – it beats paying strangers to pack or move your things. If you managed to get a few together, distribute the workload to keep things fair. Just remember, pizza and beer is not enough. Give out some gift cards or let them keep some of the things you don’t need. If that does not work, call AMEX Moving & Storage today and let’s get you moved!