Moving Truck

Source: Flickr CC by Travis S.

Ah, the many splendors of moving. As Walt Disney once said, “We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things, because we’re curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.” We move less from curiosity and more from needing more or less room, being closer to work or near a new job, or simply because it’s time. But regardless, Disney was onto something about doors opening and new paths unfolding. The hassle is getting the boxes and furniture through those doors and up the path!

We’ve put together our top tips for organized, cost-effective, stress-free moving.

Get Organized

Go ahead and start planning several weeks in advance. Make a list of everything that needs to happen and prioritize when it needs to be done. Be sure you know when to contact the Post Office, utility companies, and schools. Start asking around for boxes, but don’t wait too long. Some stores are asked so frequently they only offer boxes once per week.

Don’t forget to check Craigslist.org for people trying to get rid of boxes. If you can’t easily find the supplies for free, get a good rate for them by shopping online with sites like SmoothMove – where you can build custom moving kits and find specialty boxes for wardrobes and mirrors.

Shop Around

Give yourself enough time to research the moving trucks and/or movers. Planning a move mid week and booking in advance can save you quite a bit. The more flexible you can be, the more likely you are to save money. If you are rolling up your sleeves to move everything yourself, look for a deal from trucking companies that allow you to drop-off your truck near your destination. You can find great deals for Budget moving trucks here.

Clear Out Your Clutter

Trucks and movers are based on the amount you have to move so it makes sense that you would want to purge just before you pack. Donate anything that can be used by someone else (and keep your donation receipt for taxes later) and have a garage sale to help offset costs of the move. Click here for some great tips for how to have a successful garage sale.

Smart Strategies

Don’t waste unnecessary money on things you will need immediately after the move. Go ahead and label some of the boxes “Me First” for light bulbs, cleaning supplies, paper products, etc. Moving is expensive enough as it is, so make every dollar count!

For fragile items such as dishes and collectibles, you can purchase bubble wrap and packing peanuts – or you can use kitchen towels, old newspapers and clothes to help protect anything breakable. Likewise, for oversized objects, like TVs, pack them tightly into the moving truck where they’ll be surrounded and supported by your other items.

Ask for Help

Obviously you can save big bucks by doing the heavy lifting on your own. If you have family or friends nearby, see if they can help in shifts or even a “power hour” to really knock it out. Offer up some baked goods or pick up pizza and popsicles to show your appreciation. As The Beatles said best, “We get by with a little help from our friends!”

While moving can feel daunting and time consuming, it is a process. Like everything else, with organization and great deals, it can be a smooth transition. Make it as fun as you can, don’t be afraid to see it as an adventure or even a workout, and always ask for help when you need it.