Use packing materials you already have
Whether you’re moving across the country or just across town, moving can get expensive. From new boxes, tape, and labels, to rolls of packaging paper and bubble wrap, you may be able to avoid some unnecessary moving costs by using what you already have. As your move-in date approaches, consider setting aside boxes from online purchases or asking local stores if they have extra boxes you can take home with you. In addition to saving boxes, newspapers and mail catalogs can be used as packing material for less fragile items. Often, the kitchen has more breakable items than any other room. With cups, plates, glassware, serving dishes, it can be daunting. One way to tackle this task is by using dish and hand towels, hot pads, or other cloth items. Rather than buying bubble wrap to place between individual plates or to wrap glass cups, you may have enough kitchen towels to place between each plate and cup, to save money and provide good protection for those fragile items.
Donate or sell unwanted items
Over the years we can accumulate more belongings than we know what to do with, and moving is the perfect time to assess what we own and choose what we want to bring to a new home. When you start to pack up a room, set out one box to pack for the new home, one box for donations or garage sale items, and a garbage bin for anything that needs to be tossed. You can free up your new home of some unwanted clutter and save money and time by not having to move those extra items. And if you choose to hold a garage sale, you might even make some money back!
Consider the cost of moving options
If you’ve moved before or have friends and family to help out, you may be able to move yourself and save money. However, it’s important to weigh the cost of both money, as well as your time and energy. Renting your own moving truck, then moving all of your own furniture and boxes, can be a huge task and may not be feasible for some. If you choose to hire a moving company, be sure to ask for estimates from a few different companies to compare prices and services. You may be tempted to go with the lowest cost movers, but be sure to read customer reviews before deciding on a moving company. You’ll want to make sure your belongings are protected and handled appropriately.
Pack with purpose
Especially when there’s a time crunch, it can be tempting to throw random items into a box and call it a day. But packing strategically can save room, minimize the number of boxes you have to carry, and save you frustration when unpacking at the new place. Try to plan ahead and pack your boxes carefully, making sure to utilize available space and keep similar items together. This tip helps if you’re moving yourself, or if you’re paying a moving company by the hour.
