Moving can be an expensive process depending on how much stuff you have to move and how far you are traveling.  In fact, moving your possessions is heavy work and can prove to be quite strenuous.  Hiring professional movers to transport your possessions for you can save a lot of worry and unnecessary stress. 

Plus, licensed movers carry insurance that protects you and them from any damages that might occur during the move.  If you would like to save money on the move, a few simple strategies can save you quite a few dollars.

• Pack your belongings yourself.
• Get free boxes from the supermarket, liquor store, or other local businesses.
• If you cannot get enough free boxes, see if you can purchase used ones from the moving company.
• Substitute newspaper for packing peanuts.  If you need more than you can provide on your own, ask family members or neighbors to save theirs for you.  Packing peanuts and bubble wrap are expensive, so you can save quite a tidy sum of cash.
• Use any duffle bags and suitcases that you own to pack and transport clothes from your closets.
• Go through your items as you pack.  Make a pile of things to sell or give away.  Have a garage sale and donate anything that doesn’t sell.  Not only can you save money on boxes and the movers, but also, you might be able to make some money if you can sell the items.
• Transport some of your belongings yourself if the movers charge by the hour.

If you are planning a move in the near future, avoid making any new purchases until after the move.  Try to get referrals for several movers and hire one of them.  Get all of the details in writing and make sure that the contract is signed by the moving company and yourself.

Author: Susan M. Keenan

Posted on January 4th, 2008 by admin
Filed under: Moving Tips