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Moving is among the most stressful life events you will ever experience, right along with losing a job, losing a loved one, or divorce. But why is it stressful? The general disruption, the packing, the scheduling, and mostly the moving costs.
When you live somewhere, you get attached to the four walls, and it becomes your comfort zone. And disruption of this attachment can become stressful.
However, relocation cost is the major stressing factor. On average, a local move costs about $1,250, and long-distance is about $4,900. These evaluations are based on a simple two or three-bedroomed house.
Fortunately, you can cut down the expenses by following these tips:
- Declutter
Fewer items mean fewer belongings to relocate. Moving companies charge you based on the weight of your items. When you declutter, you minimize your stuff in volume and weight.
One of the best ways to have a hassle-free move is by donating or tossing items you don’t need. Take time and move room to room, evaluating items you need versus those you no longer need anymore.
Decluttering will also give you an easy time when packing. And if you hire a moving company for packing and unpacking, you can be sure they’ll charge less due to fewer items.
You can also sell some items to get extra money for other expenses.
- Source Packing Materials from Local Shops
Packing materials can be another nuisance expense you can easily cut down. You don’t have to spend a fortune on them. Get boxes for free from local shops or friends and relatives.
The usual spots like liquor or grocery stores can be a great source of free boxes.
Alternatively, you can search for websites that give boxes at a low cost or free.
Remember your zip-top bags, sheets, and pillows can be packing materials. You can also save money on packing supplies by utilizing containers or laundry baskets for packing breakables or smaller items.
- Rely on Professional Movers
Moving your stuff from one place to another is unnerving. It can also strain your wallet, and you risk breaking your valuables. Hiring a reliable moving company like Allied Van Lines saves you the trouble.
Moving companies are insured to cater to any liability. It means if your items get lost or break while on transit, you’ll get compensated.
And as you pick movers, verify if they’re paid based on your load or hourly basis. For a local move, hourly movers are the most ideal. Paying a flat rate on your load will save you some bucks on a long-distance move.
- Choose a Season and Mark Your Calendar
Summer is usually the moving season. Movers tend to charge high due to high demand. But if you want to save some money, plan your move during winter.
Relocation rates also tend to be extremely high on the weekend. Therefore, schedule your move on a weekday. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays are ideal days for relocating.
The Bottom Line
There is a lot that happens during a moving process. But some common sense, a bit of planning, and creativity can go a long way. These relocation tips are designed to help you keep your sanity and more money in your pocket during the transition.