Over the past few weeks, I’ve found myself doing something I haven’t for twenty years – moving. Whether you’re moving a student off to college, relocating for your job, or simply downsizing, moving is a daunting and expensive task! Here are a few of the money saving moving tips that I’ve used recently to keep the costs lower and not lose my mind.
When Selecting Moving Boxes
To pack up all of your precious belongings, you’ll likely need boxes. There are a number of ways to snag free boxes – from friends who have recently moved, the grocery store, or exchange groups on Facebook. If you do choose to purchase boxes, think small. While it may seem economical to load up all of your stuff into the biggest box you can find, it’s difficult to actually pick those up. Ask me how I know. Purchase small and medium boxes and pack smart, not heavy. I also prefer boxes that have handles on the side. My favorites were the Home Depot Small Boxes.
Also, label everything as specifically as possible. We have a Brother P Touch Label Maker (less than $20!) that has been working overtime both before we moved and now after as we get settled. It’s worth its weight in gold.
When Hiring Movers
Call around to gauge how much hirning movers might cost. There will be a large range of price points depending on how far you’re going and how much stuff you have. We’re no longer spring chickens, so we decided to move all of the boxes and “stuff” on our own and then hire movers for the big ticket items – appliances, beds, heavy furniture, etc. We’re so grateful for our friends and family who showed up and helped us get the boxes out of the house first before the movers came later ini the week. In the end, the movers were able to get the job much quicker than we thought thanks to the sweat equity put in before they came.
When Tackling Home Renovations
To make your new dwelling “home,” you’ll likely want to make some improvements or stylistic changes. It’s so, so tempting and easy to rush out in a flurry and buy all of the things. Again, ask me how I know. However, it’s smartest to tackle what I would call the “big rocks” first. Those would be things like structural changes to make sure the house is safe. And from there, think about paint and fixtures you might update. Save furniture, decor, and knick knacks for down the road after you’ve completely unpacked.
When Setting Up a Budget
Many times, you don’t really know what you need until you get into a new space. And you’re so busy unpacking and cleaning, shopping is a luxury. You need a moving budget. But you’re going to spend more than you realize on miscellaneous items. Allow for things like more food on the go and feeding the friends and family brave enough to help you. Build some space into the budget.
When Tracking Your Receipts
I don’t even want to count the number of times I’ve been to Menards, Lowe’s, and Home Depot over the last two weeks. Some of our purchases have been just what we needed. But we’ve also had to make some returns of items that didn’t fit the space or weren’t the right look. I’ve taken to stashing all of our receipts in a big pink bucket right now so that I can easily access them for returns or even better filling out that Menards 11% Rebate. Keeping track of receipts both physically and digitally will also help you stay on track with your budget and remember what you’ve actually purchased.
I’m staring at a large stack of empty boxes as I type. And there are still several left to unpack in my living room. But bit by bit, our new house is becoming home. In the end, all of the hard work will be worth it. Moving is stressful, both emotionally and financially. I’m so grateful for our new home and I can’t wait to relax here once all the work is done!
My book is now available: Slaying the Debt Dragon: How One Family Conquered Their Money Monster and Found an Inspired Happily Ever After. You can also check out The Debt Free Devotional on Kindle.
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