Even if you have everything planned out, and are being as
frugal as possible, a residential move still winds up being ridiculously
expensive. Sometimes it’s just a matter
of knowing your options to help keep the costs down. For example, one of the most simple ways to
save on your move is to buy your cardboard boxes online, in bulk, and in
advance. The cardboard boxes at
department stores and moving stores are way overpriced, and you wind up needing
more than you think you will to boot.
As soon as you know you are going to be moving, it really
helps to begin doing some research and analysis. The first thing you need to do
is decide whether or not you are going to be renting your own moving truck
(what we call a DIY move), or if you are going with a moving company (otherwise
known as a professional move). There are
a couple important things to consider before deciding on the first option: the distance, do you have enough friends to
help, and how much moving experience do you have?
If you’ve decided you are good to go ahead with renting your
own truck, there are seven simple tips you are going to want to follow to make
sure you get the best deal.
- Compare quotes to find the most affordable option. This should be easily done on their websites. You can save a ton of money on cardboard boxes, and other moving supplies, but saving on your truck is going to be the heavy hitter.
- Choose the right sized truck. You don’t want to go too small, or even too big. There are plenty of moving calculators online that can help you calculate which size you should pick.
- Pay attention to the amount of miles that you are going to get with your truck. The quote might be the cheapest, but after adding the miles it might be the most expensive.
- Book your moving truck as far out in advance as possible. If you are scheduling a couple days out, it is easier for a company to upcharge since they know you don’t have much time to work with.
- Do a solid inspection of the truck you are renting. You don’t want to be pinned with any damage you didn’t cause. Make sure that there is a written inspection you can sign before and after.
- Look out for any possible promotions, deals, or packages. If you don’t see any, try contacting the actual agencies and see if they will accommodate your budget.
- Be aware of the fines and penalties that will come with your truck. Returning the truck on time, with a full tank of gas, and in good shape will keep you from having to pay penalties and fines.
