Planning a move can be one of the most stressful things to do, particularly when you factor in all the logistics and the finances required to make your move a success. Moving with limited finances can be quite challenging and sometimes it may feel impossible, however, moving on a budget can be well executed if you keep the following tips in mind:
1. Get free boxes from local retailers
One way you can save on moving costs is to get boxes from local retailers. Retailers receive hundreds of boxes with products that they have to unpack on a daily basis. They have an abundance of boxes and are always willing to give some away to people who ask for them. Pop into your local supermarket and collect enough boxes for your move.
Be sure to go as early in the morning as possible, as boxes tend to be scarce in the afternoon.
2. Ask friends and family to help
A cost-effective way to move is to ask your friends and family to help you. If anyone you know has a moving truck and is willing to help you move your belongings for free or at least at an affordable price, consider asking them to assist.
Moving is also easier when you have someone helping you pack, especially if you live in a large home or have many belongings. Your friends and family can also help on your moving day by carrying a few of your belongings in their car, reducing the number of trips you have to make.
3. Throw out and give away items you don’t need or use anymore
Decluttering is a huge aspect of planning a move. Having a bunch of belongings that serve no use to you will make your move even more strenuous. Split up your belongings into different piles — a donation pile, a throwaway pile and the pile you’re keeping.
Ask yourself if you really need to keep certain items. A move can serve as a new beginning for you, so freeing yourself of material items can be symbolic of your fresh start. Research shows that there’s a link between clutter and poor mental health states, so it’s best to keep a minimalist mindset when sifting through your belongings so that you have fewer items to move.
4. Compare quotes from different movers
If you have to hire a moving truck and manpower, make sure you compare different quotes. Settling on the first mover you get a quote from can be a bad decision and can potentially cost you more.
Another way to save on moving costs is to get a word-of-mouth recommendation on an informal moving service. Unlike a registered moving company with an internet presence, informal movers get their clients through word of mouth and usually help people move as a part of their informal business. People in the informal sector tend to be more affordable than registered moving companies, so this is something you may want to consider.
5. Take as many items as you can in your car
By taking as many items as you can in your car, you reduce the number of trips you may have to take to move all your belongings. Doing this means you also have to be aware of not overloading your car, which can be quite dangerous and may result in you getting fined by traffic officers.
Pick small items such as decor, homeware, etc. as they don’t take up that much space.
6. Plan your move ahead of time
Anything done at the last minute is bound to fail. By planning your move in advance, you will have ample time to create a budget and a plan for how your move will go. With the tips above, you can make sure that transitioning into a new space doesn’t put a dent in your finances.
