Are you gearing up for a local move and feeling the weight of local moving costs? Well, you're in luck! In this guide, we'll unveil eight smart strategies to help you easily navigate your budget-friendly relocation. Whether you're moving across town or just a few neighborhoods away, the prospect of managing local moving cost can be daunting.
However, armed with our expert tips and insights, you'll discover how to make money-saving moves that will streamline your move and keep your hard-earned cash right where it belongs – in your wallet.
Join us as we delve into the art of frugal relocation and embark on a journey to save big while ensuring a smooth transition to your new abode.
8 Smart Ways to Save on Local Moving Cost
Moving is an exciting adventure, whether you are moving across town or country. Moving is one of the most stressful experiences, both from a budgeting and logistical perspective. The estimate shows that the average move costs between $80 and $100 per hour for moves within a state but $2,000 to $5,000 for interstate moves.
While some moving costs cannot be avoided, there are ways to cut back on them. We asked a few professionals to advise you on saving money for your next move.
1. Before You Pack, Declutter
You may think it is just another thing to do, but getting rid of everything you don't need to move with you will save you money, time, and space.
Take inventory of all your items, including clothing, cookware, and furniture. Sara Skirboll is the RetailMeNot shopping and trends expert. She says that if you do Marie Kondo first, you'll be amazed at how much stuff you have. You could save hundreds if you downsize. The hourly cost of the movers is one of the biggest moving costs.
You can also make money by selling unwanted items and using the funds to pay for moving expenses. You can consign furniture and nice clothes to consignment stores, sell them on websites such as eBay and Poshmark, or hold garage sales if you feel ambitious. You can also schedule a donation drop-off or pickup if you'd rather not deal with the hassle of selling things.
2. Booking Your Movers at the Right Time is Important
You can save a lot of money by hiring movers during the week rather than on weekends, in the off-season as opposed to peak season, or at mid-month instead of end-of-month.
Weekdays are less expensive, as fewer people are moving on these days. Luke Marklin is the CEO of Bellhops, a digital-based moving company. He says that if you can take time off from work, then Mondays, Wednesdays, and Tuesdays will have the most availability and lowest costs. Avoid the last weekend of the month as it is usually the busiest and the most expensive.
Skirboll states that moving is most common between fall and spring. This may differ depending on where in the world you live. So, find out when moving is most popular. You can also save money by scheduling your move during the off-season.
Marklin says that you can save between 20 and 30 percent by moving on days when it is less busy.
3. Speak to Your Cable, Internet, and Utility Providers
Avoid double paying your rent, mortgage, utilities, Internet, and Cable at two locations. You can align your accounts' start and end dates by calling your provider to discuss proration. Additionally, take advantage of new account specials offered by internet and cable companies in your area, and speak with utility companies about waiving installation/activation fees. You can get these fees waived if your payment history is good elsewhere or you are a loyal customer.
4. Find Moving Supplies in a Variety of Ways
Moving supplies, such as boxes, tapes, bubble wrap, and padding, can add up quickly. Think outside the box and save hundreds of dollars.
Before buying additional packing materials, use all your suitcases, baskets, and hampers. Skirboll suggests using socks and towels instead of bubble wrap to protect fragile items. Ask your friends, neighbors, or local businesses for their boxes if you need them.
Depending on your moving amount, you can save anywhere from $50 to $400. You'll benefit the environment as well.
5. Pack it Yourself
You can save a lot of money by packing all your belongings (or the majority). It is the most time-consuming and expensive part of moving. Hire movers to collect your boxes or just your furniture.
6. Consider Shared-Load Moving
Moving long distances is another expensive aspect of moving. This method is time-consuming and expensive for the mover and you. Shared load moving companies can help you cut costs by transporting multiple households' belongings using a trailer. This method may take a little longer but can reduce costs by half. ABF U Pack, PODS, and COWs are examples.
7. Ship Your Books
Shipping your books is a great way to move them.
Skirboll says that books are heavier than you think and don't fold up to save space. The books are extremely heavy. Ask FedEx or the United States Postal Service about moving books to free up space in trucks and vehicles.
USPS offers a Media Mail service that allows you to ship books and other media at a lower rate than the standard cost.
8. Plan Your Meals Ahead
The ol' eating-pizza-in-an-unpacked house is a rite of passage, but dining out for every meal as you unload and organize over the next couple of weeks can be pricey (and sometimes not so great for the waistline). Plan your meals ahead of time to save money.
It can be as simple as cooking food in your previous home and freezing it for future use or as complex as using a meal-delivery service like Blue Apron, HelloFresh, etc. Having a list of ingredients for your new home can be helpful.
Conclusion
Managing the local moving costs can be a real game-changer in the ever-exciting moving adventure. Whether you're headed across town or crossing state lines, it's no secret that the financial aspects of moving can be a source of stress. According to research, the average cost of a local move within a state can range from $80 to $100 per hour, while interstate moves can set you back anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000. But before you resign yourself to a costly relocation, remember that there are savvy strategies to help you keep those local moving costs in check.
Our guide has revealed eight expert-backed strategies that can significantly impact your budget-friendly relocation. From the wisdom of decluttering to booking your movers strategically, speaking with service providers, finding inventive ways to source packing materials, and even planning your meals, these cost-cutting measures can add up to substantial savings.
We've only scratched the surface of possibilities regarding slashing local moving costs. By following these tips and thinking creatively, you can confidently embark on your moving journey, knowing that your hard-earned money remains where it should be – in your pocket.
Ready to put these money-saving moves into action for your upcoming relocation? Start implementing these smart strategies today and watch your local moving costs shrink. For a hassle-free, budget-friendly move, don't hesitate to contact the professionals at Movers NYC. Our experts in the field are dedicated to ensuring your move is smooth and affordable. Contact us now and make your next move a cost-effective success. Your wallet will thank you!
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