If you’re due to move out soon, you’re probably looking for ways to cut down on costs in anticipation of the big move.

With things like packing materials, utility connections, and travel expenses comprising a big part of the budget, it’s not uncommon for people to rack up a large debt by the end of the move.

The good news is that there are a few ways you can bring the cost to a more manageable amount. With a few key strategies, it’s more than possible to relocate while still keeping your bank account healthy after the process has been completed.

So without further ado, let’s explore some relocation tips to help you save some big bucks for your move. Let’s jump right into it!

Sort and Sell Your Belongings Ahead of Time

There’s no better way to save than to earn a little in the process as well.

Weeks (or months) before your move-out date, consider selling a good chunk of your belongings in advance. This not only helps you unload the amount of stuff you’re expected to haul to the moving truck, but it also rewards you with a bit of extra funds in the process.

The things you can choose to sell are entirely dependent on you. You can sell old clothes that you haven’t worn in the past year. You can also sell bulky furniture sets or old kitchen appliances at low rates for some quick cash.

You can consider a few different approaches when it comes to selling your goods.

An easy way to constantly market your products is by selling them on Facebook Marketplace, Carousell or online listing websites. You can also advertise your secondhand goods in a specialty online group where they may be interested in your wares.

Alternatively, you can also sell goods to your local community by hosting a garage sale or entering a flea market as a seller. In any case, doing this before your big move-out day can help reduce the number of things you need to transport, which can reduce the fees for packing costs, extra weight, labour, and more.

Hire a Reputable Removalist Company

Another way you can save money is by hiring a reputable removalist company.

While it may be tempting to enlist the help of friends and family to load and unload a couple of your heavy boxes, often at no extra cost, this can bite you back in the long run.

Their untrained hands may cause your fragile items to break during transit, which can cost you more than you would’ve otherwise have spent for professional removalist services. As this is the case, you’re almost always better off shouldering the cost of moving services to ensure access to a reliable and stress-free move out.

What makes these services great is the fact that they’re insured. If your belongings do get lost or broken during transit, you won’t be completely out of luck. You can file a claim and get financial compensation for the damages. In addition, of course, to the high level of training that these removalists undergo before they can carry out the work.

All these factors combined can give you peace of mind knowing that your belongings are in safe hands. And if you need a lead, Muval are reliable local removalists that can help you pack and unpack your belongings to your new place at an affordable rate.

Use Free or Low-Cost Packing Materials

Another excellent way to shave costs for your upcoming move is by using free packing materials. Instead of spending on a dozen or so reinforced boxes and other various supplies to facilitate the move, consider using low-cost alternatives instead.

One technique that can help you save is sourcing boxes from local shops and grocery stores. Many of these establishments cycle through and discard boxes daily. You can ask a manager or staff member there if they’re willing to part ways with a couple of boxes. More often than not, they’ll be happy to oblige.

In some cases, they could even give styrofoam, bubble wrap and other soft materials to serve as padding for your items. If the initial shop you approached refuses to let go of their boxes, no problem, it doesn’t hurt to ask other places like your local supermarket, hardware store, or bookstore.

Of course, you can also use the materials you have at home if you have any sitting around. For instance, you’re likely to have duct tape and blankets around. Use them to tightly seal the boxes and to pad the box’s interior, respectively. By doing this, you can keep your costs low while keeping your items safe.

Compare Different Moving Quotes

One more way people can save on moving costs is by taking the time to research different moving services.

Many moving companies offer a variety of pricing plans. And depending on your needs, some of these offerings may work out better for you than others, both in terms of price and value.

As this is the case, it’s essential to get a good idea of the services you want and how much you’re willing to spend on these services.

For instance, if you only need a small truck to bring your belongings from your current place to your new one, then you should find a moving service that uses that truck instead of one that’s too big and expensive for your needs.

Similarly, if the airfare ticket to your new destination is significantly cheaper for a morning flight than an evening flight, consider taking the morning flight to save a couple of bucks, too.

There are many ways you can reduce the cost of the overall move by conducting thorough research. Vetting your removalist company options and comparing the value they offer is one such way to potentially save on costs.

Time Your Move During the Off-Season

If your schedule permits, consider planning your move-out date during a less busy time of year. Most people have historically planned moves during the summer months or on the weekend. This naturally drives the price of moves set on that season upwards.

If you want to reduce the cost of your upcoming move, set it on a date or period that’s quieter or with less demand. The middle of the month tends to be a low-demand time due to it not coinciding with lease ends. As for the months, May to August tend to be quieter in Australia because of the colder weather and the tendency to avoid school disruption.

Removalists will likely offer lower rates during this off-season. If you’re paying removalists by the hour, they’ll spend less time on the road due to the reduced traffic, which can shorten the move’s total. If you’re flying out, airfare tickets may also be cheaper.

Additionally, you could even secure some extra perks as an incentive for choosing certain removalist companies during this competitive time. By planning during a less busy season, you can get a smoother and more affordable relocation. So as much as possible, try to be strategic with your timing.

We hope that these tips can help you navigate your move-out process while still keeping some money in the bank. All the best in starting your new life chapter on the right foot!