Congratulations on selling your home! Now comes the task of packing, relocating, and unpacking. Here’s how to keep your expenses in check so you can invest more in your new place.
During the pandemic, around 16 million individuals made a move, according to the US Postal Service. Home sales skyrocketed in 2020, reaching a peak not observed in 14 years, per the National Association of Realtors. If you recently sold your property, that’s fantastic! However, it’s essential to manage your moving costs effectively. After all, wouldn’t it be wiser to use any profits for retirement investments, stylish throw pillows, or eye-catching artwork for your new living room?
Before rushing to hire a full-service moving company or purchasing brand new packing supplies, pause and explore our best cost-saving strategies. (Pun intended!)
Find Free Boxes
Don’t buy boxes just yet! Many local grocery stores, wine shops, liquor outlets, and hardware stores have sturdy boxes they plan to recycle at the end of the day. Often, staff will gladly give these to you, reducing their workload. Call ahead to inquire about their delivery days for boxes and ask if you can swing by to collect some. Remember, you can gather boxes over multiple trips rather than all at once. With a bit of effort, you’ll have a sufficient supply for your move.
Utilize Shared Moving Services
If you can wait for your belongings, consider moving companies that offer shared transport. Firms like Allied Van Lines and Sterling Van Lines specialize in this service, where your items share space with others. For example, if you're relocating from California to NYC, your belongings may travel alongside another shipment heading to Ohio or Chicago. Doug Brown, a sales rep at Sterling Van Lines, notes that many customers save between $500 and $3,000 by opting for shared moving solutions.
While this approach may extend delivery times, sharing costs can be advantageous — especially if you can spend quality time with loved ones while waiting for your items.
Declutter Before You Move
As you prepare to move, consider parting with some of those sentimental items you’ve kept for years. It might be tough, but you’ll appreciate the fresh, uncluttered space in your new home. Remember, movers often charge based on weight, so shedding clutter beforehand can save you money. Plus, you’ll save time and energy by not packing items you no longer need. Donate or sell what you can, and enjoy the relief of a good purge.
Price Negotiation is Possible
Many moving companies don’t want you to know that you can negotiate your moving costs! Asking for a better rate or discount isn’t just for flea markets or online marketplaces — it works for moving services too. Most companies have ongoing discounts, promotions, or special offers that might not be publicly advertised until you inquire.
Embrace Modern Technology for Moving
The moving industry has traditionally relied on phone calls, paper receipts, and in-person evaluations, but the pandemic has accelerated the adoption of technology. Now, numerous moving apps offer quick estimates and prompt responses. Take GoShare, for example: this app-based moving service has successfully moved 3 million items in recent years.
According to Melinda Jensen, GoShare’s communications head, the company operates similarly to Uber but at a lower cost and with an easy scheduling system. They offer virtual estimates with 90% accuracy by utilizing artificial intelligence to assess the volume and cost of moves. “By minimizing human involvement, we reduce costs and expedite the process,” Jensen explains.
