Moving to a new house is as stressful as it is expensive. Many of us make the mistake of budgeting for a deposit and first month’s rent or mortgage fees, but forgetting to consider the costs of moving itself. Moving to a new house is a big job, with lots to consider, and most people end up spending far more than they needed to, simply because they didn’t take the time to plan and prepare. If you’ve got a big move coming up, here are seven of the best ways to reduce costs and save money.
Move at the Right Time
Booking your removals team in advance can often mean that you can get a cheaper deal or make the most of a special offer. But, moving at the right time can also make a difference. Movers might offer less costly services on weekdays, outside of peak hours. More people move to a new house in the summer, so even moving in the wintertime could be cheaper.
Get Free Packing Materials
Boxes, tape, and other moving supplies are essential, but even cheaper purchases like these can start to add up and become a significant cost. Fortunately, you can get some of the supplies that you need for free. Call large local stores and ask if they could save you some of their boxes from their deliveries. Most are happy to recycle in this way and will leave boxes to one side for you to collect at a convenient time. Ask friends and family if they’ve got anything left over from their own moves, and pack clothes and other textiles in large shopping bags and luggage that you already own.
Have a Thorough Declutter
The less stuff you’ve got, the less you have to move. The less you have to move, the faster your move is complete, and the less it costs you. Before you pack, or even while you are doing it, have a thorough declutter of all of your rooms, selling, donating, or recycling anything that you no longer want or need. If you’re not sure about something, ask yourself if you love it enough to pack it, pay to move it, and unpack it.
Compare Moving Services
You might choose to save money by hiring a van, and completing the move yourself, instead of hiring a team to do some of the work for you. But, movers have the advantage of reducing your stress and having insurance to protect against breakages. If you do want help, compare costs, and read reviews to find the right service.
Redirect Mail
Redirecting your mail may have a small cost attached, but it can save you a lot of money in the coming months. Remembering to redirect mail means you won’t miss bills and other important correspondence.
Switch Providers
A move is a perfect time to compare utilities and save some money on your bills. Don’t just stick with your current providers, even if you’ve had a great deal so far, as things might be different at your new address. Take some time before you move to compare deals for your new address and to set up new contracts.
Shop the Sales
Chances are, you’ll need to do some shopping for your new home. You might need large pieces like beds, mattresses, and sofas, you might need essentials like carpets and curtains, or you might just need small items like bins and utensils. After a big move, you might not want to spend too much, so read Simply Rest’s post on Black Friday mattress sales before rushing to the stores.
Shopping in sales, looking for deals, and even waiting for offers if you can, can save you a fortune, so try never to buy anything full price without first looking for a better deal.
Preparing for your move doesn’t just help you to spend less. Proper planning can also mean that your move is less stressful, that less goes wrong, and perhaps even that you can enjoy the experience. Good luck!
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