Moving is both difficult and stressful. Combine this with the added pressures of work and other surprises in life, and it is enough to make someone feel like they are going crazy, spiraling out of control. It is always important to expect the unexpected in an effort to assuage life’s uncertainties, even though it may not be easy.
If you find yourself having to move for reasons other than work, you need to have enough funds to support this transition. If you are lucky enough to move because of work, chances are your new employer will give you a stipend, easing your financial burden and lessening your own stress. In any case, it is beneficial to consider doing the moving on your own-saving a few dollars here and there can add up and save you a bundle in the long run.
Here is a guide on how to move on a shoestring budget.
Downsizing your existing load of belongings:
Now is the time to get rid of that clutter you accrued in the previous years. Yes, I said it, that behavior might edge on being that of a hoarder. Now that we have acknowledged the issue, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start getting rid of what you don’t need. Give it to charity, or sell it on craigslist.org. You can also have a garage sale a couple of weeks prior to your move to sell your unwanted possessions locally. You can definitely make some money to help cover the cost of the move-you’d be surprised as to how many people would gladly buy your junk when they don’t have any use for it themselves, thus helping you un-clutter your home. Take advantage of this and sell as much as you can. Don’t be greedy and chase profit margins; just get rid of everything at any acceptable price.
Discount packing:
The good thing about moving is that you are not the only one who moves! Once you see someone moving into your neighborhood, ask them as soon as you can if you can take away their used boxes when they’ve finished unpacking. You can reuse these boxes, as they are generally left in fairly good condition. At the same time, you are helping your neighbors get rid of their trash, free of charge. It’s a win-win situation for everyone. When it comes to packing fragile items like dishes, wrap them in newspaper for protection. Just make sure to wash those items afterwards, because its possible ink from the newspaper will smear onto your dishware.
Make sure to tag every box. This way, if you do use movers, they will place the boxes in the appropriate sections of your new house. The more work you do now, the less you will have to do at the destination. Let me tell you, after a whole day of moving, the last thing you want to do is unpack. In most cases, it can take up to 3 months before all the boxes are unpacked. It is not usually a first-choice activity for recently relocated individuals on their subsequent weekends.
If you don’t ask, you don’t get:
I understand that family and friends may be reluctant in helping you lift furniture on moving day, but you could always ask them to help you with smaller tasks like organizing boxes prior to moving day. With that said, you would be surprised at how some people are willing enough to offer their time to move smaller articles in their vehicle. You never know if you don’t ask, so ask away!
Don’t sweat about the professionals:
While it’s true that professionals come at a price, you have to hire them and pay that price if necessary. Don’t be cheap, because it might cost you more in the end to have your furniture unprofessionally moved. To reduce your cost, just ask the movers to move the heavy furniture that you and your friends and family cannot do on your own. When it comes to using movers, check their BBB status, their license information, read their reputation in moving review websites, or simply ask friends or family about the moving companies they have used in the past, along with their experiences with those movers. The more you know, the more informed of a decision you can make, and the better it is for you. Your alternative is to shop around for the best deal you can find on an inexpensive moving van or truck rental, and heft the items yourself.
Preparation, preparation, preparation:
It’s a mantra similar to that of real estate (location, location, location). The more prepared you are, the more you can save. Always plan for uncertainties and have backup plans in case they happen. Expect the unexpected so you can be ready for unfortunate situations and find quick solutions to existing problems. Never wait till the last minute, even if you have to do the move yourself.
Good luck, and congrats on the start of your life at a new location!
Posted by Tallahassee Jacksonville Movers
Posted by Tallahassee Jacksonville Movers
