It can be easy to become overwhelmed when it is time to make a move. Even when it is a move just across town. If you are moving to another state, the simple thought can be paralyzing at times. Being organized can mean that you will be less stressed and save a bit of money. Even if you hire professionals to organize and complete your entire move. Whether you choose to do it that way, do it yourself, or a combination of the two, here are a few tips that will save you some money on your move.
Timing is Everything
Everybody tends to want to move during the summer months. The weather is warm, kids are out of school, and everyone just wants to be outside. If you have any flexibility about when you move, try not to do it in the summer. That is because spring and summer are peak months for professional movers. If you want to hire an interstate moving company, the best time is in the fall and winter months. Not only will it be easier to book the dates you want, it will be cheaper during the off season. Just be cognizant of the road conditions if you’re traveling toward blizzard-like weather. In this case, it may be best to move during warmer months.
As Pertains to Electronics
When it comes to electronics when you are going through all of your things in preparation for the move, it might be a good time to get rid of those that are outdated or that you no longer use. You can sell them for a nice sum. As for the rest of them, one of the more brilliant moving tips is to take pictures of how they are connected so that when you get to the new place, you will be able to connect them back up with ease.
Use Pre – Used Boxes
It is a fact that you will need boxes. It is also a fact that going out and buying a ton of new boxes just isn’t necessary. You can get them for free from grocery stores. Liquor stores also tend to have boxes that are excellent for moving. They are strong and just the right size. Another place to look for boxes would be at offices. Most of them have empty copy paper boxes that are also handily sized and quite strong.
Be Ready
Make sure when the day arrives that you have everything prepped for the moving company. Everything should already be packed (if you are packing it yourself) and labeled when the movers get there. This is especially true if they charge by the hour as not being ready will cost you more money, and we are trying to save money here.
Stick to a Budget
It can be more than a bit difficult to budget for everything that is involved in a move. Especially when you are moving to another state. Within the first month of your move, you might come to find that you need a new rod for the shower, liners for the cabinets and drawers, new spice racks for the kitchen, and the list goes on… and on. All of these seemingly small things can quickly add up.
Then there are additional fees like deposits for the utilities, a new driver’s license, a membership to the local gym, and new license plates for the vehicles. Try to plan ahead and set some money aside for things of this nature.
You should also try to plan interstate moves for when the weather is good, if at all possible. When you have to stay off the road at a hotel or leave your belongings in trucks for a few days, you will end up spending all that you have saved and then some.
What to do With Your Savings
After getting settled into your new place, decide what to do with the money you saved on your move. If it’s springtime, you might consider starting a new cutting garden. Maybe you will paint the new house, or get the lawn maintenance equipment that will be necessary for upkeep. Maybe you might add it to your investment portfolio for your retirement, or put it into a savings account for the holidays. The move is over and now all you have left to do is decide where to spend what you saved.