You’re not alone if you’re gearing up for a move but dreading the hit to your wallet. Moving can be one of life’s most stressful events, with a whopping 61% of people ranking moving as higher on their stress list than getting a divorce or getting a new job.
When planning how to move cheaply, it seems as though there aren’t many corners you can cut. But don’t fret because moving on a budget is doable, and we’re here to guide you through it.
Let’s dive into top-notch moving on a budget tips to help you save money without skimping on efficiency or peace of mind. We’re talking decluttering secrets, packing hacks, and the lowdown on the cheapest way to move out that won’t break the bank.
Moving on a Budget: 7 Expert Tips
If you’re preparing for a move, this guide should help you prepare. We have some expert suggestions to help you save money without cutting corners.
Check out these cheap moving tips so you can enjoy the moving process:
1. Avoid Moving During Peak Season
Timing is crucial when you’re looking for budget moving. The peak moving season typically runs from May to September, when demand is high and prices follow suit. If you can, aim for a move during the off-peak months. Not only will you likely snag a better deal, but you’ll also avoid the hustle and bustle of the busiest moving period.
2. Be Flexible With Your Schedule
Flexibility can be your best friend when looking to cut costs. If you’re open to moving on a weekday or mid-month, rates might be more favorable. You’ll also want to avoid holidays, which can be more expensive due to increased demand or impossible because of employee holidays.
Movers often have more availability during these times, which can translate to cheap ways to move for you. If you’re moving long-distance, consider being flexible with your arrival date at your destination, which can sometimes lead to discounted rates.
Pair this all with our checklist for moving day when it’s your time, and you’ll make the entire process a whole lot easier.
3. Declutter and Donate
Before you start packing, take a little bit of time to declutter. Not only will this make your move lighter and potentially cheaper, but it’s also a chance to start fresh in your new space!
As you go through your belongings to pack, take a moment to decide what you really need. Donate items still in good condition to local charities or sell them online.
That will reduce the amount of stuff you need to move and could even put extra cash in your pocket. Use the profit to help with other moving expenses.
4. Use Affordable Packing Supplies
You don’t need to splurge on expensive supplies when packing, but it is important to pack efficiently. It’s best to invest in solid, dependable moving bins. We highly recommend Gorilla bins for our moves. They keep your items protected and a’re built to handle hefty belongings and stacking with care. Choose medium-sized boxes whenever possible, as they are the most convenient.
Get creative and use what you already have at home. You can use towels, blankets, and clothing to wrap and protect fragile items with more care. Newspapers can also be a cost-effective alternative to bubble wrap. You can also ask friends or family who recently moved if they have any bins to spare/lend.
If you need to buy supplies, look for deals at discount stores or online. Sometimes, moving companies offer affordable packing supplies as part of their services, so be sure to ask! When you have gathered all the boxes and packing supplies, check out our How to Pack an Apartment article to make your move quick and easy.
5. Get By With a Little Help From Your Friends
Moving on a budget is a big task, but you don’t have to do it alone. Enlist the help of friends and family to make the process smoother and more enjoyable. They can assist with packing, provide moral support, and even help with the heavy lifting.
Just remember, while friends and family are great for support leading up to the move, they’re not professional movers. On the moving day, it is best to let the movers do their thing without potential distraction. If you’re looking for the cheapest way to move by not hiring a mover, you must be prepared for potential damages to your items. Trying to learn how to move without money might sound like a good idea, but it can put your items at risk.
For the heavy lifting and transporting of your belongings, it’s best to rely on a reputable moving service like Lou Moves You. That way, you can focus on enjoying your new space with your loved ones after the move without the stress of damaged items (or strained backs!).
Let Sweet Lou Move You
So what is the cheapest way to move? Trust Lou Moves You, where you can get a competitive price and transparent, trustworthy service.
We’ve got you covered whether you’re moving across the street or the tri-state area. With our trustworthy and tight-knit team of movers, we offer five-star service to anyone living in or moving within New York, New Jersey, or Pennsylvania.
At Lou Moves You, we’re confident that we offer some of the best prices in town without compromising quality. We’re transparent about our costs, licensed and insured, and don’t sneak any hidden charges or surprises into the mix.
Sweet Lou is here for you if you’re moving on a budget! Explore our offerings and get started on your seamless moving experience at Movers NYC!
