Moving can be a very stressful experience. You don’t just need to plan your move, but you also need to adhere to a moving timeline and be flexible enough to make last-minute changes. All that can be quite challenging. On top of all that, relocating can be quite expensive. However, it doesn’t need to be like that. There are ways to avoid unwanted long distance moving expenses. Today we are going to share with your our favorite tips to ensure you pay less and get more from your move. Do you think that’s impossible? Well then, grab a piece of paper and pen, and let’s prove you wrong.
How to avoid unwanted long distance moving expenses
As we have mentioned previously, moving long-distances can be quite expensive. However, learning how to avoid those costs actually comes down to knowing what to expect from your relocation. For example, a key question you should ask yourself during the move is should you hire long distance movers NJ, or, where to buy packing supplies from, etc.
The answers to these questions and more, all come down to one thing. Your budget. Cashing out for some services right away that might pay out dividends further down the line, might seem like a smart idea. However, if that means that you don’t have money for something else that is crucial for your long-distance move (i.e. money for gas or money for renting a truck) you might want to rethink your strategy. With that being said, here is what we recommend that you do.
Is skimping on hiring movers a good way to avoid unwanted expenses?
If you want the short answer it’s yes and no, it depends. On what does it depend on? Well, on a lot of things actually, but mostly your moving budget. Hiring movers is a service that definitely will pay dividends down the road. Especially if you manage to snag yourself a good discount or haggle for a good moving quote.
Generally speaking, moving services really do help you cut down on most expenses. From not paying for packing materials to not needing to rent a moving truck. While an argument can be made that hiring moving services costs as much as it would if you would to try and move by yourself, nothing can be said about someone who just really wants to relocate on their own. If you are one of those people, then here are a few tips on how to avoid unwanted long distance moving expenses.
Three easy steps to avoid expenses
If you are one of those people who like doing things on their own and do not want to hire a moving company then here are a few simple tips that will help you cut down the moving expenses.
Step #1: Get free packing supplies
There are a lot of ways to find packing supplies. More importantly, there are a lot of ways to find free packing supplies. For example, have you tried visiting your local supermarket or grocery store? You’d be surprised how many stores have cardboard boxes in top-notch condition, lying around that they are willing to give out for free.
However, there are also eco-friendly ways in which you can use packing supplies (ie. plastic containers and bags, old clothes and blankets, etc.) However, be wary, make sure that these containers are sturdy enough to hold your belongings! You don’t want a disaster on your hands once moving day comes.
Step #2: Packing
Now, without a moving company to pack your belongings, the whole packing procedure could be a bit of a drag. However, there are a few ways to make it more bearable.
- Declutter. Remove all the unnecessary belongings and pack only the bare essentials.
- Pack your least-used items first.
- Do not pack your clothes. Leave all the clothes in the drawers, there is no need to pack them. Just make sure you put plastic wrap over the drawers so it doesn’t accidentally open during the move and spill all your clothes out!
- Create a moving index. Make sure to keep a numbered spreadsheet that outlines the contents of boxes and bins. We recommend that you label the moving boxes with numbers so it will be easy to find that specific thing that you are looking for.
- Overnight bag. Make sure to pack an overnight bag that contains all the essentials for each member of the family.
On the other hand, you could hire moving companies NJ and have all that sorted out hassle-free!
Step #3: Ask for help
Let’s be honest, moving all your belongings by yourself can be extremely draining. That’s why most people ask for help from their friends and family members. However, there are a few things you should know before you ask them for help, a sort of etiquette if you will, of asking your friends for help.
- Understand that it’s a big favor to ask of them, so show appreciation.
- Make sure you leave enough notice. Ask your friends whether or not they are available on the date you wish to move. Respect their answer, don’t hold grudges.
- Tell them what needs to be done, but don’t micromanage them. While you might be happy to know that your friends are willing to help you move, nobody will like it if you boss them around. Tell them what needs to be done, and let them do it in their own way.
- Be prepared when they get there. If you need help with relocating your stuff, make sure everything is already packed and sealed shut in appropriate containers. So, your friends can help you relocate faster, and it will show that you respect their time and efforts as well.
- Lastly, don’t ask them for things you should hire the professionals for. Keep in mind that your friend’s help has limits. Don’t expect them to help you carry that piano or 150-foot dresser up a ten-story building. Limit your expectations.
Don’t forget, that if you ask your friends for help that they expect you to return the favor. So, the next time you get a call from your friend with a request to help them move, don’t just roll your eyes over. Help them. As you never know when you are going to need a favor in return.
