1. Purge Before the Move
Discard all the items you don’t need, want, or use anymore by donating to charities before moving day to save money on your move. The less stuff you move, the less you will pay. Most local moving companies charge hourly or by the piece, therefore, you will end up paying more money for things you don’t even want or need. If you are moving long-distance, you will end up paying more because those moves are based on weight.
2. Consider Packing Yourself
Most full service moving companies provide professional packing services but you can save money by packing your belongings on your own time before the movers arrive. Some companies will provide boxes or other materials for you to pack yourself or you can visit a moving supply store like Uhaul to get boxes and other packing materials.
3. Save on Packing Materials
Although, we do not recommend used boxes or packing materials to protect your belongings. You can get creative by using items you already have in and around your home. Use your garbage cans and containers to transport yard tools, holiday decorations, or gardening equipment. You can also use your luggage and duffel bags to pack clothing, shoes, and even linens and blankets. Then you will save money since you won’t have to buy as many boxes to transport these items.
4. Disassemble the Complicated Stuff Before Moving Day
Most moving companies provide this service and may require that unless they take the items apart, they will not reassemble. But find out in advance, because saving time on the disassembly and reassembly could help save money on the day of the move. You can start by disassembling bed frames, dressers with mirrors, tables that can’t be moved in one piece, and any other items like electronics that have complex wiring. Be sure to organize any hardware or wiring in bags and attach them to the piece or tie them together so they do not get lost in transit.
5. Color Code the Boxes and Items For Each Room
Whether you use colored stickers, markers, or post-it notes, designate a specific color for each room of the house (yellow = kitchen, blue = bedroom 1, etc). Then be sure to post that same color on the door, entrance, or wall of the room. You can do this in addition to labeling the boxes. As long as each room is clearly marked and the color is visible, it will keep the movers from bugging you with each piece that comes off the moving truck. They will know exactly which room to place each item, box, or piece of furniture.
During your next Kansas City, Overland Park, or Topeka relocation, remember these 5 ways to save money so you can have more money to spend on decorating and turning your new house into a home!