9 Ways to Save Money with DIY Moving

Saving money is by and far the main reason why many homeowners choose DIY moving over other types of moving options. But, what you might not know is that by following a few simple tips, you will not only save even more money, but you’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of doing it yourself even more thoroughly.

Ask questions, get recommendations

If you know someone who recently handled a DIY move, ask them questions about the experience. If they used a moving container company, how was the company’s performance? Did your items arrive on time and in good condition? Would you recommend this moving container company? Paying slightly more for a trustworthy moving container company might save you hundreds of dollars on broken or damaged items caused by an inexperienced or inexpensive moving company.

Negotiate

When choosing a moving container company, negotiate with them to see if there are any ways you can lower your rental costs. For example, if you have your own dolly or moving blankets, see how much your rate could be reduced if you don’t use theirs. Even if the company you’re looking to use can’t negotiate rates, they might be willing to throw in a few extras for free. For example, if the moving container company or truck rental offers storage services, you might be able to get them to give you a free month of storage if you rent a particular size container or truck.

Don’t buy boxes, find them

Moving boxes aren’t that expensive to buy individually, but when you consider how many of them you’ll need to move an entire house, the cost can add up pretty quickly. So why buy them when so many boxes are available for free? Every department store, grocery store and retail outlet has empty boxes just waiting to be thrown out. Ask the store manager if it’s ok for you take a few of the sturdier ones to help with your move. Odds are the store will be glad to have them off their hands and you’ll not only be saving money, but the Earth will appreciate your green efforts.

Move during the week

With the cost of gas skyrocketing, this is one area that can truly put a damper on your savings. But statistically, gas is priced cheaper during the week than it is on the weekend. Not only that, but moving companies charge lower rates during the week if you’re looking for some professional help with your move. Therefore, plan your move to take place during the week and you’ll save some extra money.

Get rid of junk and clutter

Many moving companies, including some “you load we drive” companies, calculate moving costs according to the weight of your items. This fact alone makes it more beneficial to go through your household items before you pack them away. If you have things you no longer use or want, have a yard sale or donate them to charity. If it’s broken or unusable, throw it. In any case, you’ll save money by not taking them with you to your new home.

Don’t sweat the small stuff

If you’re moving across town, then it may make sense to load up your car, truck or van with as many smaller moving boxes as you can fit. This will allow you to rent a smaller moving truck or portable storage container for transporting the larger items.

Pack wisely – consolidate

All of your household items are going to the same place, so why not use them to your best advantage? For example, instead of purchasing expensive packing materials, wrap up delicate kitchenware items in kitchen towels, bath towels or clothing. By packing this way, you’ll also cut down on the number of boxes you’re going to be moving since your items will be consolidated.

Weigh the cost of buying new versus the cost of moving

This tip plays into the way weight impacts your cost of moving as well. In some cases, it may be more practical to purchase new items when you move to your new home rather than transport them. This can include refrigerated items and other perishables like heavy potted plants.

Pack household essentials in a separate box

One of the most unexpected costs of moving often comes on your first night in your new home. In many cases, essential household items like plates, paper towels, silverware and toilet paper can’t be found so rather than look for them, homeowners often just run out and buy new essentials to replace things that haven’t been unpacked yet. Don’t let this happen to you; pack wisely and you won’t have to spend a dime replacing things you already have.

As you can see, these helpful DIY moving tips are straightforward and easy but they are often overlooked due to the stressful process of moving. Rather than fall victim to the hidden costs of moving, take a deep breath and put these tips into action and your do it yourself move will go off without a hitch and with the money saved from doing it yourself, you can buy something special for your new home.