Moving to a new place should be something to look forward to, but sometimes, that is not the case. It can be both physically & emotionally challenging. If any move is not well planned, it can also bring financial strain. Moving cost is an integral part of every move and it can tend to add up quickly, whether you are moving locally, from one state to another or to some other town in your state. To facilitate your move, here are some budget-friendly moving tips that will help you make your move more smooth on a budget.
1. Work Out A Budget: Do your homework and get a solid handle on the costs and how to cover them, including moving yourself with help from friends or family, or by hiring professional movers. Allow for boxes and packing materials, vehicles, gas, food supplies, other rental or lodging costs upfront deposit for home or apartment, utility connections and more. Nowadays, many free software programs and apps are available with built-in tools, lists and tips to help you create a budget template. If you like to keep it simple, purchase a notebook/register to list items and steps to diarize your moving plan and expenses.
2. Plan Utility Disconnections and Connections in Advance: Give your move out date to your utility service providers and explore the possible services that can be transferred first. This can help you save extra costs in the form of overlapping charges, disconnection fees, security deposits, etc. For essential utility services such as electricity and water, you can wait and let them remain on at least for a couple of days. This will help you ease any delay caused by the move. Ask your leasing manager or real estate agent to arrange a list of local utility service providers serving the new area that you are moving to. Most local utility providers have same set of rules for new accounts, so it is better to check out discounts or special offers these companies might offer new customers. Try to schedule your utility services to be connected at your new location on or as close to the day of your move as possible.
3. Start Early: Start your packing early. Begin with things that can be packed with little or no disruption to your family life. Such items may include your valuables, paintings, out of season clothes and bedding, etc. Use blankets and newspaper in place of bubble wrap to pack certain things. Develop a color code scheme for new home and boxes. Choose a color for each room in the home, then mark each of your boxes with the corresponding tape or marker. It will make the entire moving process more efficient.
4. Downsizing: First, carefully decide on the items that you want to take along with you to your new place. Once you finalize that list, start selling, donating or disposing of the things you no longer need. If you make donations, ask for a receipt for tax deduction purposes. If possible, pack and move your “keep” list as early as possible. Set aside essentials, such as toiletries, food, beverages, paper towels, tape, etc for use on move day.
5. Consider All Your Options: Consider all your moving choices, like help from family & friends for your move, hiring professional movers to facilitate your move, pack your own pod or look for some easy shipping modes as some courier companies also offer cargo services in association with major providers. Family and friends are often willing helpers, but they can also leave you hanging on moving day, if other demands for their time take precedence over your move. Review all your details and make adjustments as needed. If you are counting on friends and family, check with them a few days ahead of your move and assign tasks to them.
If you have any questions about our Texas relocation services, don’t hesitate to reach out by contacting us today! A member of our staff will gladly answer any inquires and help you schedule your next move. AB Moving is family owned and operated business, and a trusted name for moving services in Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, Austin, San Antonio and across Texas.