Moving sucks. That’s right. We said it. It is a hassle, a pain, and a major drain on resources. We don’t blame you for wanting to hire movers. (And like, we totally love that you do.) But even though it’s an expense worth paying, you don’t have to shell out every penny doing it. These are our favorite ways to help you save money on your next move.
Pack Yourself!
Yes. It seems like a pretty easy first guess. And it is. But to be completely honest, packing is what takes up most of the time and resources in a move. The more stuff you have, the more men you’ll need to get it all done in a timely manner. If you’re being charged at an hourly rate, packing yourself will save you tons of time.
Packing doesn’t have to be a big scary monster, either. Unless you end up having to move in a matter of days, start preparing as soon as the sale is finalized. Regardless of your situation, here are some special tips for easy packing.
Get Rid Of It
This is time consuming in a way, yes, but it also saves you time – and resources – in the long run. When you go through all your things – presumably as you’re packing – and decide whether to keep or toss, you can save space in the boxes and any bubble or paper wrapping it might need. Not only that, but you’ll have less to physically move on the day of and subsequently unpack in your new home.
You can give old items to homeless shelters where they’ll go directly to an individual for good use. Job interview-appropriate clothing, towels, bedding, bags, and water canteens are always welcome at a shelter. Here they can be the difference for change.
Pack With A Plan
When you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the stuff in your house there is to pack, divide it up into chunks. Just like your mom used to cut your grilled cheese into small bites, do your packing in installments. Start with least used/seasonal items. Holiday decorations and what have you should already be packed away, for the most part.
In areas like the kitchen, pack away all but a place setting for each family member and essential kitchen tools/appliances. Plan your meals so you use only a few dishes for each meal. If you can fill up and run your dishwasher every night, you’ll be fine. Then the last day before you move, pack the rest away and take yourself out for dinner.
Don’t Pay For Packing Materials
The cost of packing materials can surprise you. One of the easiest ways to save up on these expenses is by hitting up retail and grocery stores and asking if they’ve got any boxes from inventory shipments they’re getting rid of. You might even be able to ask when they typically receive shipments so you can pick them up promptly.
Using those coupon flyer books that we all still receive in the mail to wrap your dishes is an excellent way to not only save money, but repurpose a paper product. When you’re finished, toss it in the recycling bin where it belongs. It’s a win for everyone.