At 5 Star Moving & Storage in Colorado Springs, we understand that your moving budget is important. Most people know they’ll need to hire movers, but they don’t always account for other costs that are typically involved. Those moving boxes from your local big box retailer really add up!
However, whether you’re planning a big or small move, there are ways to ensure it won’t break the bank. Today, we provide a few suggestions to get you started and stretch your dollar.
So, let’s get to those 10 considerations for your moving budget.
- Move in the off-season if possible. Fall and winter rates are usually less expensive if you need a moving company, and they will also have more time to accommodate your schedule.
- Get quotes from at least 3 different moving companies to compare their services and policies.
- Purge items you really don’t need. Give them charity, resell on social media websites or online auctions to make some extra cash. There’s no point paying to move stuff that you don’t need.
- Packing material costs can add up quickly. If your moving budget is tight, use boxes from stores and turn bedding, pillows and sheets as protectors for breakable items. Look on social media sites or use an app like Nextdoor to find people giving away moving boxes for free.
- You can also visit the dollar store for labels, tape and markers.
- Start packing early and make sure you’re done before your movers arrive. You’ll avoid paying them to stand around doing nothing while you finish packing. Children’s rooms, craft rooms and items that are not often used is a great place to start.
- If you’re moving long distance for a job and meet certain distance criteria, you may be able to deduct some of your expenses come tax time, depending on the situation. So, keep receipts.
- Be certain to use a reputable company that is accredited and carries the correct insurance to avoid losing or damaging your items. Protecting yourself and your personal belongings are your responsibility, do your research thoroughly.
- If you’re downsizing, set aside items that can be stored. 5 Star Moving & Storage can provide this option at reasonable rates. There are many storage vault sizes to choose from, with long and short rental options available.
#10 Establish Your Moving Budget
Finally, create a cost guideline to follow. Details and hidden costs can add up quickly, so it’s important to track and adjust as you go. Take time to go over everything, from a moving company, packing materials, utilities set up (they typically charge a transfer fee), cleaning company, damage deposit, and more.
If costs start spiraling, you can decide if it’s better that you clean versus hiring a service. You can also borrow or rent a truck (Fluid Market typically has low-cost options) to move loose, awkward items like lamps and brooms – anything that doesn’t fit neatly in a box.
Your move doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. With these considerations for your moving budget, you will be well on your way to a great new start! And 5 Star Moving & Storage can help in a small or a big way, and everything in between. Give us a call for a quote today.