5 Hacks That Keep Money in Your Pocket as You Move
Moving, no matter where you plan to go, can be expensive. Unfortunately, it is often an expense that we must come up with for one reason or another. It is important that you find opportunities to save you as much cash as possible and keep your pockets lined with cold-hard cash. Below, we will talk about some hacks that can keep your moving costs down.
1. Pack Up Your Home Yourself
We know, it sounds like a chore and it is. It can be frustrating to pack your home and very time consuming, but, the truth is, you will save A LOT of money this way.
Studies show the average cost to hire someone to help you pack is about $50 per hour. Yikes!
2. Skip the Bubble Wrap
Yep, we know, it is nice to have, and it keeps your items safe and sound, but, did you know that newspaper and magazines work just as well?
In fact, the way you pack your items matters more than what you wrap them in. Often, you can find excess newspapers for free at recycling centers and the neighbors may even have some.
Ditch the packing peanuts and bubble wrap that can cost a lot more.
3. Look for Discounts on Moving Trucks
Okay, so we do not all have a truck or SUV large enough to move our items for us, so we must settle on a moving truck of some sorts.
To help keep the costs down, look for a truck company that is offering discounts or get several quotes from local companies and choose the best deal.
If you really want to save some money, you can choose to rent a moving truck and drive it yourself. This option tends to be less expensive than hiring a moving company.
4. Downsize and Pitch What You Don’t Need
So, it sounds a little harsh, but it is the truth. Toss out what you do not need as this will not only lighten your load, but you will not have to pay as much for your move.
If you have items that you do not want but you cannot just trash, hold a yard sale a few days before you move and unload all those unwanted items. If you have any items left at the end of the yard sale, you can donate them as well.
5. Moving Locally? Make Some Smaller Trips
As we mentioned above, you will need the moving truck for your larger items, but, if you are making a local move and live within a close distance, you can save a lot of money by simply making some trips to your new home and moving boxes daily.
For example, if you live within walking distance, take a short walk with a box or two – every little bit helps.
Look for More Ways You Can Save
A move does not have to be expensive and you CAN save money with the five hacks above. Take time to plan your move and always be on the look out for money-saving coupons and discounts to help.