As you probably already know, moving can be a costly process. There are a lot of different expenses associated with moving, and they can add up quickly. Even a local move can get pricey if you are not careful. Fortunately, there are some ways you can save money on your relocation. If you have a local or long-distance move coming up, keep reading! In the first installment of our two-part series, we will discuss four practical tips to help you save money on your next move.
Collect Boxes from Your Local Stores
One of the easiest ways to save money during a move is to collect used boxes and packing materials from your local stores or an online marketplace. Grocery, liquor, and home improvement type stores will often have an abundance of used boxes after every delivery day. Give them a call and ask them to hold boxes for you instead of sending them out to recycling. You can also check Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace for free boxes, bubble wrap, newspapers, and other packing materials.
After someone moves, they often want to pass on the boxes instead of putting them in the recycling bins. However, we highly recommend securing your boxes and packing materials several weeks before you intend to pack up your home to ensure you have everything you will need. If you wait too long, you may not be able to get enough boxes, and you will have to purchase them. A few boxes will not cost too much, but if you need to buy enough boxes to pack up your entire home, you may be shocked at how much you will need to spend. If your boxes are still in good shape after you unpack and settle into your new home, pass along your free boxes to the next moving family!
Move In the Off-Season If Possible
Like vacations and weddings, there is an offseason and peak season for moving. May through September is a hectic time for moving companies. Not only is the weather more pleasant during that time, but it’s also easier for families to move during the long summer break while the kids are not in school. If the children are changing schools due to the move, it is typically preferable to allow them to finish the school year in their current school and start the new school year in the fall.
Like booking a vacation during peak travel time, booking a move during peak moving season can cost more money. If you cannot move in the off-season, we recommend reserving your dates as soon as possible. This will help ensure the best prices possible, but the dates fill up fast, and if you don’t book far enough in advance, you may not be able to get the moving dates you need.
Check For Moving Specials
When you start comparing prices between moving companies, don’t forget to check for moving specials. You will often see offers advertised on their website or even their social media pages. You are more likely to find coupons and moving specials during the off-season. If you are a veteran or active military member, you may find additional discounts. Even if you do not see any advertised offers online, calling and speaking to a customer service representative never hurts. They may have an available discount that will allow you to lower your moving costs. After you build quotes with a few of your preferred moving companies, remember that some companies will price match with comparable services.
Don’t Forget to Turn Off Old Utilities
One of the most common moving mistakes we see is forgetting to turn off the old utilities. Unfortunately, it is just one of those things that get overlooked in the chaos of moving. It may not seem like it could cost that much money to make that mistake, but it adds up fast if the meters are left running. For instance, leaving the thermostat on as the heat or air conditioner runs nonstop or if a water line breaks while the water is still running to the house—these are just two ways that leaving the utilities on can cost you up to hundreds of dollars!
You can schedule your utility shut-offs in advance, so it doesn’t get lost in the myriad of moving tasks on your list. Don’t forget to notify all your services: water, gas, electric, trash, internet, cable, phone, security, and any other home service you may utilize. At the same time, you should schedule a turn-on date for the utilities in your new home. This will also save you some money because many companies will charge an extra fee for same-day or next-day turn-on requests.
Zippy Shell Is Always Ready to Help You Move
We hope these tips are helpful as you get ready for your next move. Don’t forget to check out part two of our Saving Money Series in the coming weeks. If you are looking for a moving partner, give Zippy Shell a call at 888-947-7974 or contact us online. We would love to share more information on how we can provide an affordable and stress-free move. Call today for your free, no-obligation estimate for your local or long-distance move!